Both the first reading and the Gospel of Matthew contain stories about vineyards. In each parable, the Lord of the Vineyard provides fertile ground, select vines, and appropriate security for his vineyard. However, the good fruit that the vineyard could have provided him is not provided to him, either because the vineyard does not produce good fruit or because the tenants refuse to offer the good fruit to the owner.
Failure to produce fruit for the Lord has consequences. The deserted vineyard is left to its fate. Tenants who refuse to offer up their harvest to the Lord face punishment and have their place taken over by others.

The metaphor of the tenants is replicated in real-time when Christians focus on claiming or asserting ownership of the vineyard rather than giving up its fruits. These will be fruits of justice, righteousness, compassion, and mercy. If Christians do not actively strive for social justice, care for the marginalized, and advocate for righteousness in society, they may be underperforming in their stewardship.
Avoiding this kind of unfruitfulness necessitates a dedication to modesty, generosity, and active involvement in the Church’s mission.
We pray for the Holy Father and all those involved in the ongoing synod on synodality. May it bear fruit that is both positive and bountiful.

Fr. Augustine Deji Dada