Each of the Gospels for the last three weeks has had a sting in the tail. First there was "So the last will be first and the first will be last" (Mtt 20: 16), then "For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him" (Mtt 21: 32) and this week, "Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom." (Mtt 21: 43) These are all clear warnings against presumption and entitlement that can mean disciples fall away and yield to sin. Being a Christian means being ever attentive to the challenge of the Gospel and not considering that we have fulfilled our redemption before arriving at our true destination: "For here we have no lasting city, but we are looking for the city that is to come." (Heb 13: 14) This means we have to put up with trials and tribulations trusting in the hope that is given us in Christ Jesus. We cannot let our initial "yes" become a subsequent "no" through our behaviour that not only imperils our souls but causes scandal to others: "See to it that no one becomes like Esau, an immoral and godless person, who sold his birthright for a single meal. You know that later, when he wanted to inherit the blessing he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, even though he sought the blessing with tears." (Heb 12: 16-17)
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