Homily on Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46 , Cornerstone  

Praise be to Jesus Christ

In a village, there lived a humble family with two sons. The parents had a special love for the elder son because he was very good in his studies. They gave everything for him while ignoring the other son. The elder son studied and settled in a foreign country, and the parents also wished to be with him. However, he did not want to take them to his place. Finally, they had to turn to the younger son, whom they had once regarded as good for nothing. He happily accepted them and took extreme care of his parents. Seeing all these, one of their neighbours once made a commented that ‘The stone you once rejected has now become the cornerstone.”

These words echo the message of today’s Gospel, where Jesus teaches us that the stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. The life of St. John Mary Vianney is a beautiful example of this truth. In his early years, many did not see his worth. He was considered a waste, someone without promise. Yet, with time, he was transformed. He became a shining light, a living cornerstone in the church and community. His journey, full of trials and deep sorrow, turned into a testament of hope.  Just like the fully ignored son in the story, St. John Mary Vianney showed that love, humility and total dedication, carry a power far greater than pride or superficial success. His life tells us that, even when others completely ignore one’s potential and if we remain faithful, God sees the heart and transforms rejection into a firm foundation on which church is built up.

Scripture reminds us that this is not a new reality.  Just think about the Joseph from the Old Testament.  He was rejected and betrayed by his own brothers and sold into slavery by them, he endured rejection, hardship and remained faithful to God.  So he rose to become a pillar in Egypt, ultimately saving many lives.  It was same with Jeremiah, in spite of facing rejection and cruel persecution; he remained steadfast in proclaiming God’s truth, even when his words were unwelcome.

Very often, it is the fact that, we all feel rejected in our lives. A husband might work tirelessly for his family yet feel overlooked. Parents may feel lost when their children do not return their love and even those who serve in spiritual roles can feel isolated when their hearts are not met with the same warmth. But the Gospel calls us to look deeper. When we build our lives on the steadfast love of Christ, the true cornerstone, every rejection we face can be turned into a lesson of hope and renewal.

The message of the Gospel is clear: do not be discouraged by what others dismiss. Whether it is the quiet son who stays behind, the saint once underestimated, or the great figures of Old Testament , God has a plan that often challenges our human judgment. His love is patient, His ways are mysterious, and His power transforms what is wasted into a treasure beyond measure.

 Let us pray: Dear Lord, help us to see the hidden worth in every person and build our lives upon Your everlasting love. Amen.

If you find this reflection meaningful and useful, please share it with others

God Bless