27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Today’s Gospel reading is the parable of the wicked tenants who did not return the harvest to its rightful owner, God, and tells the story of people who lack a spirit of gratitude.

“Ephphatha” means “Be opened” in Greek. While each of us has our own things we say “Be opened” to in our daily lives, I would like us to reflect together on the fact that “in the end, we are all the same.”
(50s) Whether we have a beautiful face or an ugly one, we are all the same. That’s because, at this age, no one even glances our way anymore. (60s) Whether we have a degree or not, whether we hold a high position or a low one, whether we are of high social standing or low—we are all the same. After retirement, the terms “boss” and “subordinate” no longer apply. (70s) A large house and a small house are the same. We have no energy left, so a small space to sit is enough. (80s) Having money and not having money are the same. At that point, we can no longer use money to buy delicious food. Nor can we travel far away. (90s) Sleeping and waking up are the same. Once you wake up, you don’t know what to do next.

When death comes, we are all the same. We are buried, and people mourn and weep for us. But after that, we are all forgotten. This is because everyone is preoccupied with their own life’s problems. Therefore, while we are alive, we must not take pride in what we possess. For everything ends in the same way.

Looking back on the past, life is far shorter and more fleeting than we realize. It is like the morning dew. It glistens in the morning but vanishes when blown away by the midday wind. It’s only natural to work hard to earn money. But please don’t forget to spend more time with those close to you—especially “family, friends, and loved ones.”

The patience of the vineyard owner reflects God’s patience. But please remember that no matter how patient God is, there is a limit. God asks us to return what rightfully belongs to Him.

The harvest season may be just around the corner. Let us become farmers who can return the harvest to God, the true owner. Respecting what belongs to others is a sign of spiritual maturity. What is ours is ours, and what is not ours will never become ours, no matter how hard we try to take it. Let us set out on this week’s journey, keeping in mind the truth that all things are always seeking their rightful owner.