Memorial of Saint Pius X, Pope
Matthew 22: 1-14
God Invites Us to His Joy

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us about a king who prepares a wedding banquet for his son—a feast, a celebration of love and communion (cf. Mt 22:1–14). This king is God himself, and his deepest desire is to share his joy with us. He does not force us; he invites us. He opens wide the doors of his banquet and waits for our response.

What a beautiful image this is of our God! He does not impose himself, but lovingly calls. He prepares everything, and yet leaves us free to accept or decline. As Saint Augustine reminds us: “He who created us without our help will not save us without our consent.” This is the dignity of our freedom. And yet, how often do we turn away from the invitation?

The Gospel says that many of those invited had their excuses —they were too busy with their own fields, their own businesses. And how often do we do the same? We fill our lives with noise, appointments, and distractions, and we miss the gentle voice of the One who calls us to something greater: to communion, to joy, to love.

But God does not give up. He keeps inviting. He goes out to the streets and gathers all—the poor, the forgotten, the broken. Those who know they need grace are the ones who come. And when they say “yes,” the banquet is filled.

Let us ask ourselves honestly: What space do I give to God in my life? Do I say “yes” to His invitation, or do I close the door because I am too occupied with myself?

Let us learn from Mary, who with her humble “yes” opened her life to God’s joy. May we do the same.
Amen.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025