A Call to Service

Reflection on Today's Readings, Wednesday, 20th Week in Ordinary Time Year II, 19th August, 2020
Texts: Ez. 34:1-11; Ps. 23:1-6; Matt. 20:1-16
We are reminded today to focus on service, not gain. God condemns the shepherds who are concerned about what they get from the sheep. The first reading puts it thus: "Thus says the Lord God: 'Ho, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep? You eat the fat, you clothe yourselves with the wool, you slaughter the fatlings; but you do not feed the sheep. The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, ...." The first reading describes attitudes we sometimes display towards our responsibilities and duties. It calls us to shun negligence, laxity and complacency. It reminds us to take our responsibilities and duties seriously. The first reading is about call to service.
Today's gospel reading speaks of reward for our service. There is only one reward for everyone of us, which is the kingdom of God. The gospel reminds us that no time is too late for God and that reward for our faith in him does not depend on our work, but on his generosity, that is, his grace.
While the first reading bids us to show our faith through our works, the gospel reminds us that our rewards do not depend on our works but God's grace. Salvation is a generous act of God, not earned. Nevertheless, in the plan of salvation, we are called to work, be responsible and dutiful.

Lord our God, heal us of negligence, laxity and complacency so that we can be responsible and dutiful in our service to you and to humanity. Amen.

Fr. Andrew Olowomuke