Sunday, October 4
Isaiah 5: 1-7
Let me now sing of my friend ... concerning his vineyard. (Isaiah 5: 1)
Vineyards appear in Scripture time and again. In fact, they are in three of today’s four readings. Usually, as today’s psalm response says, a vineyard is “the house of Israel,” which belongs to God.
Isaiah’s song of the vineyard seems to be a gloomy tale for Israel – a carefully cultivated vineyard bearing only wild grapes, and an owner who allows it to fall to ruin. While Isaiah doesn’t guarantee what God will do with His people, it’s pretty certain that if nothing changes and they continue in their sin, they will experience the effects of cutting themselves off from God. But even in the midst of this grim story, there is hope. Don’t forget that the landowner. tirelessly cultivates his vineyard. He doesn’t give up! Yes, God expects to see fruit from His people, but only because He knows we can bear fruit. And yes, when we separate ourselves from God, we experience the consequences. But God constantly calls us back and offers us His help. That’s cause for hope.
Think about the way Isaiah’s landowner took great pains to prepare and protect his vineyard. He planted it in fertile, well-cleared soil. He planted a hedge around it and built a tower to watch for enemies. Similarly, God plants us in His grace and gives each one of us all the nourishment we need to flourish under His care . Baptism makes you His own. The Sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation nourish and restore you. The Holy Spirit lives in you and, like living water, helps you grow in holiness. What’s more, your brothers and sisters in the Lord, like the other vines in the vineyard, support and encourage you along the way.
God takes great pains to cultivate you like a precious vine. The grace for you to grow to love Him more and bear fruit for His kingdom – it’s all there waiting for you. Take hold of it!
“Heavenly Father, help me to respond to Your relentless grace and to bear fruit for You!”
Psalm 80:9,12-16,19-20
Philippians 4:6-9
Matthew 21:33-43
Daily Reflections from “The Word Among Us”
Recorded music remains the property of the Artists/Writers.
No ownership is implied
Our Hymns:
Open the Eyes of my Heart – Oslo Gospel Choir
I Surrender All – Oslo Gospel Choir
Take Our Bread
Simchat Torah – Malchus Choir
