Who do you think you are?

“A leopard doesn’t change its spots.” A phrase often used about someone we disapprove of meaning that they will always be as they are and there’s nothing to be done. The danger here is that we imprison the person right where they are and this becomes a self fulfilling prophecy.

We see political leaders lying, cheating and acting inhumanely in defense of power, wealth and privilege.

We see closer to home family, friends and people at work (if we are going to work in this Pandemic) who, from a faith perspective, need to change – who need God in their life.  

Yet there are ample examples from the present day and throughout history of those who come to a more enlightened way of life and to a personal faith in God later on or even at the end of their lives when those around them were convinced all was lost.

God has a vision for each and every person. Of what they can be and achieve for their personal betterment and the betterment of society and the world. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,” we read in Jeremiah 1.5.

In the Gospel reading for Mass this Sunday, Jesus relates the parable of the workers in the Vineyard. Those who were hired last received the same payment as those who had worked all day in the heat of the sun. The owner went out and discovered these latecomers standing idle. He saw their need and what they could do. He believed in them and knew from the strart he would be generous in spite of the protestations of the staple work force.

Do we believe in the potential of those around us and those in authority?

God walks alongside everyone even those who don’t recognise this. God is gracious and has given humankind the greatest gift of all – free will. It is when someone notices God alongside them and opens their heart to receive the great love and mercy on offer, that transformation is possible, even at the last hour.

What can we take from this? For those already in the Vineyard, we can see the potential in everyone. Work and pray for even the most unlikely to come into the Vineyard. Rejoice when they come for the gifts and the special place God gives even latecomers. Be ready for more labour no matter how late the hour. Pope Frances is 83. Just look at all he is doing.

God is always going out looking for those not yet in the Vineyard and sees the potential of all.