Okay, this is something I've been talking to God about for a week. I'm not sure why I've not posted sooner except that I have been busy and I guess part of me wanted to make sure I knew what I was going to type before I typed it... but I'm afraid I'm going to start losing it if I don't put it in text so here goes:

Whether we think it's fair or not, our actions tell a lot about who we are.

"What do you think?  There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' 'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?" "The first," they answered. Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you." -- Matthew 21: 28-31

When I read this passage I'm struck by the contrast between what each of the sons says and what he actually carries out in action. I'm not sure the point is that each son did exactly the opposite of what he said, but that what really matters is what was done.

That's true in our lives today. When all is said and done, what we said is not going to matter as much as what we accomplished when the day is through. If we acted with integrity and a sense of purpose that will be remembered but if we acted lazy and selfish that also won't go unnoticed.

It's something to keep in mind when we consider how we want to spend our own time and resources, but it's also something to consider as we watch those among us - particularly those that are working to change a mar on their reputation from previous times.  It's hard to hold a grudge against someone when it's apparent they're working so hard to correct that.

And what about those that have been with me through my life. I've not always walked the straight and narrow and yet I'm grateful to those that don't hold that against me but instead look at the fruits of my life in the present. It's my responsibility to make sure I have something to show them to let them know that even if I'm not perfect, I'm trying.

It's one thing to talk about lives of obedience and dedication to making the world a better place, but if we don't follow that up with action, what have we really accomplished? Not much. But take heart - it's not too late to change that! If the tax collectors, the prostitutes, my friend and even myself can turn things around, there's hope for anyone...

Now go into the vineyard and get to work!