💖 HOMILY - MARCH 21 💖

First Reading - Genesis 37:3-28

Gospel - Matthew 21:33-46

Faith is often tested in the most challenging moments of life. When tragedy strikes, many begin to question God, wondering why He allows suffering. But today’s readings remind us that even in the darkest moments, God is at work, turning adversity into a greater purpose. Trusting in Him and remaining faithful to our responsibilities is the path to seeing His plan unfold.  

The first reading recounts the early trials of Joseph. He was both deeply loved and deeply hated—cherished by his father Jacob yet despised by his brothers for his dreams. Their hatred drove them to betray him, first by throwing him into a well and then by selling him into slavery. At first glance, Joseph’s story appears to be one of cruelty and despair. But as we know, this same Joseph would later rise to a position of power in Egypt, ultimately saving his family from famine. What his brothers meant for evil, God used for good. This story reveals a profound truth: human malice cannot overturn God’s plans. What seems like tragedy can become the very means through which God brings salvation and transformation.  

The Gospel presents a similar theme in the parable of the vineyard. The vineyard represents the people of Israel, and the tenants symbolize the religious leaders who were entrusted with their care. Instead of fulfilling their responsibility, they abused their authority, rejecting the messengers sent by God and ultimately killing His Son, Jesus. This parable serves as both a warning and a call to responsibility. The unfaithfulness of the tenants leads to their downfall, but at the same time, it opens the door for others to enter into God’s kingdom. Just as Joseph’s suffering led to the rescue of his family, the rejection of Jesus becomes the means through which salvation is offered to all who believe in Him.  

Dear friends, God writes straight with crooked lines. His plans are not always clear to us, and sometimes they unfold through suffering, betrayal, or hardship. But if we remain faithful and trust in Him, we will see His hand at work, transforming even the most painful situations into something beautiful. Joseph’s suffering led to salvation for his family. The rejection of Jesus opened the way for salvation to the world. The same God who brought good out of these situations is at work in our lives as well.  

We are also reminded today of our responsibility. The religious leaders failed in their duty, and God entrusted the care of His people to others. We, too, are given specific responsibilities—whether as students, professionals, or believers. Faithfulness in these responsibilities matters. Our duty, however big or small, is an opportunity to serve God and contribute to His plan. Neglecting our responsibilities is not just an earthly failure; it is a failure before God.  

Let us take this message to heart. No matter what challenges we face, let us trust that God is at work. Let us be faithful in all that we do, knowing that God can turn every difficulty into a greater purpose.  

Let us pray for the grace to trust in God’s plan and to remain faithful in all that we are called to do. May we always be accountable and committed believers in Christ.