Sermon – Let Us Be Christians Not Just in Words, But Also in Actions (Ezekiel 18:25-28 | Matthew 21:28-32) – September 27, 2026

The readings we listened to today invite us to reflect on a very important issue for our lives: Do we live our faith only through words, or do we live it through concrete actions that change our lives?

At first reading, the prophet Ezekiel introduces us to a God who never tires of offering humanity the opportunity to change their lives.

God does not condemn us for our past mistakes. On the contrary, He rejoices when a sinner acknowledges their mistakes, repents, and begins to do good.

What truly matters is not just what we were in the past, but what we are ready to become from today onwards.

In the Bible, Jesus gives us the parable of the two sons. A father asks his first son to work in the vineyard.

The first son says he doesn't want to go, but later regrets it and leaves. The second son, on the other hand, immediately replies, "Yes, sir!" but doesn't leave.

Jesus presents us with two very different attitudes. The first son says no, but eventually changes his mind and does his father's bidding. The second says yes, but his words do not translate into action.

This analogy is an invitation for us to look at our own lives.

How many times do we say "yes" to God, but in practice live as if He were not a part of our being?

We say we are Christians, we attend the Eucharist, we pray, and we know the commandments; but does all this reflect in how we treat others, our families, our jobs, and our relationships?

True faith is not only expressed in the words we speak, but above all in the attitudes we display. If we cannot love our neighbor, it is not enough to say that we love God.

If we continue to harbor hatred in our hearts, asking for forgiveness from God is not enough. If we fuel conflicts, divisions, and animosities, praying for peace is not enough.

It's easy to say nice things, promise change, and express good intentions. The real challenge is translating those words into concrete actions. It is precisely at this point that the sincerity of our faith is revealed.

Although the eldest son initially refused his father's request, he possessed the humility to admit his mistake and the courage to change his mind.

God doesn't expect us to be perfect from the start. What He expects from us is an open heart to acknowledge our flaws and to strive to be better people every day.

It's never too late to change. We can always acknowledge our mistakes, apologize, and start over. We have time for this as long as we are in this world.

Herein lies one of the most important messages of this Sunday: To be a saint is not about never falling; it is about having the humility to rise again and the courage to change our lives.

Saint John Paul II teaches:

A saint is a sinner who never gives up the struggle.

Being a saint doesn't mean living an extraordinary life, detached from the hardships of everyday life.

Sainthood begins in small things: patience towards family members, honesty at work, concern for the poor, forgiveness for those who wrong us, the ability to listen to those in need, and faithfulness to our commitments.

Holiness is built not only on grand promises, but also on small acts of love displayed every day.

Helping our neighbor, no matter how small, when done with great love for God, helps us to become holy.

The Bible presents us with another truth that deserves our attention.

Jesus says that tax collectors and prostitutes will enter the Kingdom of God before many who consider themselves righteous.

Why? Because those considered sinners believed in the message of John the Baptist and had the courage to change their lives, while others, despite knowing God's will, did not accept it.

In this way, Jesus shows us that God does not judge solely by outward appearances .

Our relationship with Him is not defined by our titles, religious pronouncements, or the image we project to others. What truly matters is the sincerity of our hearts and our readiness to live according to His will.

We can participate in many rituals, learn many prayers, and frequently speak of God; but if our lives don't change, we risk being content with only the outward appearance of a faith that bears no fruit.

Therefore, we are invited to take a step back from our conscience this Sunday.

Does our faith change our lifestyle? Are we better spouses, parents, children, siblings, and friends because of our relationship with God? Does our presence bring more peace, understanding, and hope to those around us?

The point isn't to be perfect, but to truly be willing to be better. Every day is a new opportunity to answer God's call.

God continues to call us, and He expects from us a response that is not merely on the lips, but manifested in our lives .

Perhaps we have rejected this invitation in the past. Perhaps we have promised to change many times, but have never taken the first step.

But today, and every day, God offers us a new opportunity.

Let us be Christians not just in words, but also in concrete actions.

May our prayers lead us to love more, may our participation in the Eucharist make us more cooperative, and may our faith manifest itself in a life truly devoted to the Gospel.

The important thing is not just saying "Lord, Lord," but doing the Father's will.

And to fulfill God's will means to allow Him to transform our hearts, so that our lives will become more and more like Jesus' with each passing day.

Let us ask the Lord for the grace of a humble heart, one that can acknowledge our mistakes, repent, and begin anew.

Let our words always be accompanied by tangible actions , and let every day of our lives be a step on the path to holiness.

May the Virgin Mary always help us on this path.