The Lord is always just and is all good. This is an explicit invitation to all to work in his Vineyard. Everyone, without excuse or pretext, at any time, must go and look for workers for the vineyard. That is the good and just God that Jesus presents to us. That he pays the same to everyone without discrimination or selfishness. His kindness and generosity are beyond measure. The challenge is work. We are called at different times and circumstances to serve in his ministries. Parishes are always looking for honest and kind volunteer servants to serve. There are many people who have served for years. But there are others who are waiting for a place to also work with Jesus.

At the end of “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King,” Gollum fights Frodo for possession of the One Ring. He wins the fight, but in doing so falls over the edge of the mountain ledge, falling into the cavernous fires of Mount Doom. As he falls, we see him smile and press the ring against his chest. He is happy. He has earned what he spent his life chasing.

What are you supposed to do about the bad behavior of the people around you? You know who I’m talking about. That family member, friend, coworker, or acquaintance who is quite immoral. On this front there are two lively options in our culture: bash the person to others (probably online) or pretend everything’s fine. The former damages the person. The latter ignores reality. What to do?

Isn’t it easy to relate to Peter? One moment Jesus announces Peter’s deep communion with God the Father. The very next, when he rejects the logic of Jesus’ suffering and death, Jesus calls Peter Satan. We Christians shouldn’t be too shocked when we experience both spiritual highs and lows, when we perceive breathtaking contradictions in our hearts.