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Today's readings turn our minds to judgement and "doing God's will". The people of ancient Israel thought that a person should be punished because of the sins of his or her parents. However, the 6th century prophet Ezekiel taught that each person was responsible for his or her own behaviour. In this reading Ezekiel argues that a person who renounces a good way of life to commit sin is responsible for that decision and should die. Equally someone who renounces a sinful way of life is forgiven all past sins and should not die but live. It is never too late to turn back to God and live according to God's will.

In the gospel reading Matthew presents the first of three parables about judgement by telling a story about two sons who are asked by their father to work in the vineyard. Which of them, Jesus asks, does the father's will - the one who did not agree to go but went or the one who agreed to go then disobeyed? Matthew is drawing a distinction here between religious leaders and the poor and the repentant, often closer to the kingdom of God.

Do we live in obedience to God's will today? Do we accept that we bear responsibility for our own actions? Sometimes we are guilty, even in small ways, by supporting unjust practices or polluting the environment. Perhaps we could spend a little time each day quietly reflecting on our lifestyles, on what we choose to buy and how we respond to the events of each day.

You are also invited to pray with psalm 24 this week especially the words, "Make me know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths."