Mass Reading today Tuesday December 16th 2025

First Reading: (Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13)

Responsorial Psalm: 

(Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19, 23)

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

Alleluia:

“Come, O Lord, do not delay; forgive the sins of your people.” 

Gospel: (Matthew 21:28-32)

Jesus tells a parable of a father and his two sons. One first says he will not work in the vineyard, but later repents and goes; the other says he will go, but does not. Jesus asks: Which son did the father’s will? The answer is the one who acted, not merely spoke. Jesus then teaches that tax collectors and sinners are entering the Kingdom of God before those who say “yes” but do not change their hearts, because they believed John the Baptist’s call to repentance.

Reflection

Today’s readings center on authentic conversion of heart, an Advent theme that invites us not just to say we will follow God, but to change and act in accordance with His will.

In the First Reading, the Lord speaks to a people distant from Him, promising to purify them so they might call on His name with one heart. This purifying work is not merely external; it’s a transformation of speech, action, and trust. In the Psalm, we’re reminded that God hears the cry of the poor and saves those who are humble and brokenhearted. The Lord does not reject the contrite: He draws near to them.

The Gospel parable cuts to the heart of discipleship. Both sons said things that sounded good, but only the one who changed his mind and acted did the will of the father. Jesus points out that God desires deeds of repentance more than empty words. Those we might overlook, sinners and outcasts who recognized their need for change, entered the Kingdom ahead of those confident in their own righteousness but resistant to repentance.

As we continue Advent, God is inviting each of us to an interior conversion: To examine not just our intentions, but our actions. To turn from what keeps us distant from Him. To be people whose lives reflect our decisions to follow Christ.

“Lord, purify our hearts and make us doers of Your Word, not merely hearers.”
Amen. 

God bless you 🙏