The parable for this week strikes me as having the same message as that from last week except the metaphor is that of a wedding feast rather than a vineyard. Last week the warning was that: "...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) Today we hear: "For many are called, but few are chosen." (Mtt 22: 14) The warnings against complacency, presumption and entitlement are severe. Matthew's community as well as the Church in New Zealand in 2023, I think, faced the challenge of living out being Church in a hostile environment. The temptation is to turn inward and erect defenses against a world that does not understand us. Rather, we called to go outward and to share with others the joy of the Gospel regardless of who they are. The Holy Spirit will guide and empower us in this mission which originates from the Risen Lord.
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