Pope calls for abandoning distorted paths and embracing peace

During a recent liturgy, it was emphasized that God's thoughts differ from human thoughts, as conveyed through the prophet Isaiah. The message underscores that God's plans are far greater and more humane than what sinful humans can imagine or implement. The prophet appeals to abandon distorted paths and return to the Lord, who shows compassion and forgiveness.

The Gospel of Jesus includes parables that illustrate the new things God has prepared for humanity while also highlighting the resistance to more generous justice and greater love. A particular focus was placed on the story of workers called to labor in the vineyard, where some worked all day, others for only a few hours, and some just before sunset. The core of this parable lies in the moment of payment. The vineyard owner pays the workers who arrived first according to their agreement but also pays those who arrived last the same amount to demonstrate his generosity.

An important point not to be overlooked is the precise instructions given to the steward by the owner. He commanded that payment should start from the last workers to the first. Although the negative reactions from those who worked all day could have been avoided by paying them first, the instruction was deliberate. God's goodness is not reserved for the few but is meant for all. Even those who prioritize themselves and believe they deserve all that they have achieved are invited to consider different paths and new thoughts. The law of love overcomes the law of calculation, the experience of mercy expands the law of merit, and the gift of peace halts competition, uniting everyone in gratitude.

It is a grace to be a co-worker with God, laboring in His vineyard and serving the Kingdom of God, which embodies justice and peace. In places where God's new work is revealed, there is no room for jealousy or division. Hence, when we can meet the Lord, we should seek Him, and when He is near, we should call upon Him, turning away from the paths of sinners and unjust thoughts.

Reflecting on the Most Holy Virgin Mary, she is a creature like us but without blemish. Therefore, she helps us place our hope in God and entrust ourselves to His mercy. This way, her path becomes our path, and her thoughts become our thoughts.