Bearing Fruits Worthy of God's Reign

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 04, 2025

Readings: Isaiah 5:1–7; Psalm 80:9, 12–16, 19–20; Philippians 4:6–9;  Matthew 21:33–43

Speculum Darmstadt
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/sLTdaxpq6_A

All of us desire to follow the right path. We strive to achieve what is true, noble, honourable, just, pure, lovely, gracious and excellent. We find meaning in doing such things. It also puts us into what we are called to be. Human behaviour is mysterious and sometimes mischievous. However, deviation is part of our lives. We stumble, fall and make no headway in our effort to make things beautiful and trustworthy. We lose ourselves on the way. Returning becomes difficult. Only with divine providence and assistance, we can make our way back to our original home. The liturgical readings on this 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time are teaching us nothing but life lessons. If the Prophet Isaiah speaks about his unhappiness over the Israelites and their deviant behaviour, Jesus gives a parable of a Vineyard with wicked and crooked tenants. St Paul gives us a hymn of joy and invites us to live in peace and be true to our calling.

1. A life filled with hope and assurance 

St Paul, writing to the Philippians 4:6–9, invites us to reflect on two important dimensions of our Christian life: Trusting God in every circumstance and bearing fruit through a life of faithfulness. He writes so beautifully that the following words must be on our lips every day: "Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God." In other words, we must place everything in God's hands through prayer. In fact, prayer must lead to action, and faith must produce good fruits.

Perhaps it is easy to say in good times that "have no anxiety." Whether we like it or not, human life is full of anxiety and misery. However, it all depends on each person how a person perceives human life and engages with it: pessimistically, optimistically or realistically! St Paul is full of optimism and fills us with hope and encouragement. We cannot deny the fact that our life is filled with uncertainties, worries, competition and personal struggles.

2. Searching for a life of strength and motivation

St. Paul directs us that though negative forces are surrounding us and anxieties are troubling us, we must be daily attuned to prayer and thanksgiving. St. Paul is a realist who knows that we often carry the burdens of our families, communities, institutions, responsibilities, relationships, work and future. Sometimes, our anxieties become so overwhelming that we forget to trust the God who walks with us.

The life of St. Paul took twists and turns and experienced so much suffering. Paul does not promise a life without difficulties; rather, he teaches us how to face difficulties with faith. Prayer does not always change our circumstances immediately, but it changes our hearts and gives us the strength to encounter them with peace and hope. When we surrender our worries to God, we allow His peace to guard our hearts and minds.

3. God's everlasting assistance and generosity

Having seen what St Paul invites us to do that is to invest in prayer and thanksgiving- Jesus, on the other hand, in Matthew 21:33–43 promotes a life of right relationship with God. The parable of the wicked tenants in the vineyard reminds us of our responsibility to be faithful stewards of God's gifts. God does not allow us to go astray or move away from the focus. God has generously given us life, talents, opportunities, personality, relationships, resources, responsibilities, reputation, and even good looks. 

However, we are not the absolute owners of these gifts; we are their stewards. We are called not to be possessive or selfish, but generous and kind. Finally, everything belongs to God and God alone. God expects our faith to become visible through our actions. The fruits of our lives must be seen in our compassion towards the poor, forgiveness towards those who hurt us, honesty in our dealings, respect for others, care for creation and willingness to serve those in need. Ultimately, God does not simply look at what we possess or what we accomplish; He looks at the fruits of love and goodness that grow through our lives.

Questions for self-reflection

1. What kind of fruits are we producing in the vineyard entrusted to us? 
2. Are we nurturing the vineyard of our families, communities and workplaces with love and commitment? Are we using our talents for the common good? 
3. Are we giving God the fruits of justice, kindness, generosity and forgiveness? 

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of life and for all the blessings and responsibilities you have entrusted to us. Teach us to surrender our worries and anxieties into Your loving hands and to trust in Your providence. Forgive us for the times we have been selfish, possessive and unfaithful to the gifts you have given us. Help us to become faithful stewards of your vineyard, producing fruits of love, compassion, justice, forgiveness and generosity. May the peace of Christ guard our hearts and minds, and may our lives become a blessing to everyone we encounter. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name. Amen.

- Fr. Olvin Veigas, SJ

E-mail: olvinveigas@jesuits.net

Blog: Celebrate Faith

Video: YouTube

02 October 2026

Saying “Yes” to God with Our Lives

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 27, 2026

Readings: Ezekiel 18:25–28; Psalm 25:4–9; Philippians 2:1–11; Matthew 21:28–32

Vineyard Workers

Change is possible in our lives. We may turn away from good things, but there is always a chance to get back. Our human spirit is mysterious. Often we find it difficult to understand ourselves. That's why regrets are part of our lives. We feel sorry for the things that have occurred in our lives. We try to mend our lives as well. As we read the Word of God on the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, it encourages us to realize that we are two parts of the same coin. God always gives us another chance. It is up to us to take it forward.  

1. Right action follows from the right intention. 

Jesus tells us in  Matthew 21:28–32 about a father who asks his two sons to go and work in the vineyard. The first son initially says, “I will not,” but later changes his mind and goes. The second says, “Yes, sir,” but does not go. Jesus then asks, “Which of the two did his father’s will?” Certainly the first one. 

Being Attuned to the Thoughts of God

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 20, 2026

Readings: Isaiah 55:6–9; Psalm 145:2–3, 8–9, 17–18; Philippians 1:20–24, 27; Matthew 20:1–16

Parable of Workers in the Vineyard 
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/C3rpiyRPl6Q

It is pretty normal for us to think that what we wish must happen to us. Therefore, we might get involved actively in the process of getting those things. However, things might not happen to us as we wish. In fact, there are other factors or elements attached to that which might not allow it to happen. As a result, we might begin to question or have suspicions about those things. This might cause us a lot of disappointment and helplessness. Even though we might decide on many things, there are things which may not be in our control. In this context, we have the beautiful Word of God on this 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, inviting us to delve deeper into the mind of God. As the prophet Isaiah says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts," so too are the ways of God. And still, we can connect with God by realizing the deeper mystery of our own lives. Jesus proposes a parable which completely shatters human logic. Hence, as we reflect over these uneasy facts of life, let's put ourselves into the logic of God. 

1. The Generous God Who Calls Everyone

The Gospel of Matthew 20:1–16 presents us with the beautiful and challenging parable of the workers in the vineyard. Jesus tells us about a landowner who goes out at different times of the day to hire workers. Some begin early in the morning, others at midday, and still others just an hour before the working day ends. At the end of the day, surprisingly, all receive the same wage.

Let us be Gentle and Nice Always

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 13, 2026

Readings: Sirach 27:30–28:7; Psalm 103:1–4, 9–12; Romans 14:7–9; Matthew 18:21–35

Jan van Hemessen, The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

Sometimes, you feel that the wickedness in the human person is so powerful that there is little chance for kindness, mercy and compassion in one's heart. The man-made tragedies and heinous crimes committed by fellow human beings are so many; it seems there is no end to it. The cycle of wickedness continues to thrive and emerge in different forms. The lessons are learnt, the experiences have strengthened, and yet nothing seems to be moving us. As we delve deeper into the liturgical readings on this 24th Sunday, we are moved with compassion and pity by the Scripture. They poignantly bring out the human tragedies, and yet God is there to encourage us to follow the right path.

1. Forgiveness starts with small acts

The Gospel today Matthew 18:21–35 takes us into the very heart of Christian discipleship: forgiveness. Jesus is not simply asking us to forgive occasionally. He is inviting us to become people whose lives are shaped by mercy. Jesus gives a beautiful parable in order to make his disciples understand the magnanimity of the sense of forgiveness.  A servant who owed an enormous debt was forgiven by the master because he pleaded for mercy. 

Called to Love and Forgive

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 06, 2026

Readings: Ezekiel 33:7–9; Psalm 95:1–2, 6–9; Romans 13:8–10; Matthew 18:15–20

Prophet Ezekiel by Michelangelo
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: 
https://youtu.be/V6VVwjID8wI

What often seems to be simple and easy becomes difficult and complicated. Our mind then takes a 360-degree turn to come back to our senses. We must simply do what we can without hurting others. There are no principles or particular mantras to put things in order. The only guiding principle is just do what you are supposed to do. There is no point in brooding over things and making unnecessary calculations and living in an imaginative world. The liturgical readings on this 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time are simple, straight, radical and clear. Moreover, they give us a responsibility to shoulder in the everyday of our lives: to love and forgive. Jesus invites us to become bridge-builders rather than wall-builders, healers rather than judges, and instruments of reconciliation rather than agents of division.

1. Correct with Love and the Courage to Reconcile

Today’s Gospel, Matthew 18:15–20 speaks about a difficult but essential aspect of Christian life: how to deal with sin, conflict, and broken relationships within the community. Jesus does not ask us to ignore wrongdoing, gossip about others, or immediately condemn them. Instead, he gives us a path towards truth, reconciliation, and restored communion. Jesus says: “If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone.” 

Discerning the Will of God in Our Lives

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 30, 2026

Readings: Jeremiah 20:7–9; Psalm 63:2–6, 8–9; Romans 12:1–2; Matthew 16:21–27

The question that always remains with us is whom to follow, which ideology to imbibe, who the trustworthy people are in our circles, and how we can navigate the complexities of the world and still fix our gaze on our God. There are many pulls from every side. Every ideology and direction that we take seems to be right. In this context, we have the awesome readings on this 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. Each one is inviting us to look into the deeper reality of life and look at God, who gives us that direction and roadmap.

1. We can believe in Jesus and still misunderstand Him

Last week's Gospel gave us an astonishing answer from Peter to Jesus' question: "Who do people say I am? "The answer was straightforward: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." With this, Jesus bestowed upon Peter the role of leader of the Church. The very next scene follows this week. Unfortunately, not the nicest one, as Peter tells Jesus that all the suffering and death that he might be going through should be stopped at any cost. Peter believes that he must protect Jesus and is ready to thwart any attempt on Jesus. However, in the mind of Jesus, Peter goes wrong here. 

Growing in Knowledge and Wisdom of God

 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 23, 2026

Readings: Isaiah 22:15, 19–23; Psalm 138:1–3, 6, 8; Romans 11:33–36; Matthew 16:13–20

The Giving of the Keys to Saint Peter by Pietro Perugino

“Know thyself” is a common expression that is often used today and was first inscribed at the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, in ancient Delphi, Greece. We can know about ourselves in various ways. When you know yourself, you can achieve many things in the best possible way. Self-ignorance might leave a person in distress or frustration. Knowledge of oneself is a must to win, conquer, or at least navigate tough situations. Jesus knew about himself. However, he wanted to know what others think about him. The liturgical readings on the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time give us a beautiful account of Jesus' popularity among the masses. In other words, the readings invite us to grow in knowledge and wisdom of God in every day of our lives. 

1. The person of Jesus to oneself and others

The Gospel of Matthew 16:13–20 presents a decisive moment in the relationship between Jesus and his disciples. Jesus asks two questions: “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” and, more importantly, “But who do you say that I am?” The first question concerns public opinion; the second demands personal faith. Christianity ultimately is not merely about knowing what others say about Jesus. It is about discovering and proclaiming who Jesus is for me.

When God's Face Shines on Us

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 16, 2026

Readings: Isaiah 56:1, 6–7; Psalm 67:2–3, 5, 6, 8; Romans 11:13–15, 29–32; Matthew 15:21–28

Juan de Flandes: Christ and the Canaanite Woman
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/-yUotv31b2o

Persistence and a never-give-up attitude are what keep us going in times of suffering and failure. When things become difficult, our thoughts usually turn to giving up. The situation, circumstances and people around us, instead of encouraging us to hold on to our goal, discourage us and even influence us to give up. Often, people give many reasons why you should not hold on to your convictions. Their passive attitude can influence us greatly. However, if we are firm in our faith, we can overcome difficult situations, including our health issues. A positive mind with perseverance will win ultimately. The liturgical readings on this 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time give us a beautiful experience of how repeated requests do not go unrewarded.

1. A Faith That Refuses to Give Up

The Gospel of Matthew 15:21–28 presents us with a deeply moving encounter between Jesus and a Canaanite woman. At first, the episode appears uncomfortable: Jesus seems silent, distant, and even harsh toward the woman. Yet beneath this difficult conversation lies a profound message about faith, perseverance, humility, inclusion, and the boundless mercy of God. The Canaanite woman comes to Jesus with a desperate plea: “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.”

God's Help in Times of Trouble

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 09, 2026

Readings: 1 Kings 19:9, 11–13; Psalm 85:9–14; Romans 9:1–5; Matthew 14:22–33

St. Peter is Walking on the Water by Lluis-Borrassa
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/3si1QV1J0GY

Often we think that we are strong. We are not afraid of anyone. We keep going, until at an unexpected moment, a turn takes place. We think that we are failing. We are losing. There is no one to help. In fact, we are sinking. Our life is uncertain. As mortals and sinful persons, we cannot predict our future with certainty. There is nothing that is sure or certain. COVID-19 showed us that none of us are immune from ill health. Illness and death come at an unexpected hour. God can take us from this world at any time. In these fragile circumstances, our life teaches us a lot. We must hang on to someone who is more powerful than us. God, who gave us the possibility of making our life possible on this earth, knows how to strengthen us when we are sinking. The liturgical readings on this 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time invite us to see that God is our strength. We must listen to Him and never doubt His promises. 

1. Storms of life come and go

The Gospel of this Sunday, Matthew 14:22–33, begins immediately after the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves. Jesus sends his disciples ahead by boat while he withdraws to the mountain to pray. The disciples, however, find themselves caught in the middle of a storm. The winds are against them, the waves threaten them, and darkness surrounds them. It is precisely in this moment of fear and helplessness that Jesus comes walking on the water.