As humans, we can recognize something of both sons in our own lives. A times, we are like the second son: our actions do not match our promises. We give our word but do not keep to it. At other times, we are like the first son, who turns a “NO” into a “YES”.

It can be very easy to say yes in the moment, without fully realizing what will be required of us. As time passes and we begin to understand what our “YES” involves, doubts can arise about whether we are willing to remain faithful to it. To fulfil our “yes”, we must continue to choose it.

Similarly, the opposite could be the case when we say “NO” to something initially and then change our minds after a moment of deeper reflection. Here we see the possibility of conversion: we can acknowledge our mistakes, turn away from what is wrong, and choose what is good. Our relationship with God, and with one another, is not built merely on spoken words, but on our deeds.

Many Christians can easily fall into the category of the second son. He represents those of us who pay lip service to God: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Matt 15:8); referring to those who are fast at making vows of “I WILL” to God yet fail to make the effort required to live in obedience to His will.

Many Christians, during the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Matrimony, boldly in the presence of many witnesses, responded “I WILL” to every question posed, but ultimately do not end up fulfilling them.

Let us thank God for every opportunity He gives us to live faithfully by our “YES” to Him. Let us also thank Him for the grace to turn our “NO” into to a “YES”. God is gracious, and His plan of salvation is for everyone. He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but desires that they turn from their ways and live.

– Fr. Cyprian Ihedoro