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In the first reading the prophet Isaiah speaks out against the kingdoms of Israel and Judah who have not produced the fruits of justice and integrity but created violence and distress. Isaiah compares the people to a vineyard tended with love by its owner. The language is in the form of a beautiful song-like parable which expresses the great love of God for his people but passes judgment on them for not producing sound grapes. Now their vineyard will be destroyed, the walls demolished and the soil deprived of rain. In other words Isaiah says, the Lord will allow the kingdoms to be destroyed because of the lack of justice to the poor. The psalm is a communal lament begging God to protect his vine once again.

The gospel is Matthew's version of the parable of the vineyard and the tenants who kill all the servants sent to collect the produce and finally kill the son and heir. Matthew wants his readers to understand that the servants are the prophets who were killed by the people and who also killed the son. The vineyard will be taken away from them, he says, and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Today the Church does not teach that this people has become the new Israel, replacing the people of Israel to whom the promises were given. Pope John Paul II said that the promises made to the people of God have never been revoked.

The first reading affirms God's love for his vineyard and we know that God's love embraces all people. How can we show God's love for all, especially the poor and those treated unjustly? This week you are invited to find a way of showing God's love to those closest to you, your family, your neighbours and colleagues.

Tuesday of this week is the Jewish New Year. Jews were the first to receive God's promises. You may like to send a card to your Jewish friends or neighbours, wishing them a good and sweet year.