Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time — September 20, 2026

Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook and Instagram.

Click here for the readings.

As long as there is breath in our lungs and blood in our veins, the door to God's mercy remains open. Every day is another opportunity to turn our hearts back to the Lord.

In today's Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the workers in the vineyard. Some answered the master's call early in the day and labored for him their whole lives. Others came only at the very end. Yet the master rewarded them all with the same generosity.

The parable is not about wages. It is about grace.

Whether we have followed Christ from childhood or have only recently begun the journey of faith, the Lord delights in welcoming us. Eternal life is God's gift, freely given to all who receive it. That is why the Church has always believed in the power of conversion—even in the final moments of life. It is never too late to seek the Lord.

The message of the Gospel is one of hope. God's mercy is always greater than our failures, and his generosity exceeds our expectations. He never grows tired of welcoming home those who turn to him with sincere hearts.

So today, if you hear his voice, don't wait. Seek the Lord while he may be found, and call upon him while he is near.

Have a blessed week, everyone.