Tax Collectors and Prostitutes

Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: "What is your opinion? A man has two sons. He came to first and said, 'Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.' He said in reply, 'I will not.' but afterwards changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, 'Yes sir,' but did not go. Which of the two did the father's will?" They answered, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him."

Consideration: We are called to do the Father's will always. At times, our hearts speak to us to do the right thing; do we respond yes and drift off to other things; or respond no, then complete the task because it was the right thing to do. Others may be caught up in things not pleasing to God. We may also cast judgment upon them because they do not hide their shame. Shame on us for doing so; we do not know their state in life. The Lord is the only one who can see into the depths of the heart. Unrepented hypocrites may not enter into the kingdom of God; but contrite sinners who love the Lord with all of their heart, by the grace of God certainly will. Amen.