The Cost of Yes and the Garment of Grace

Judg 11:29-39a, Psalm: 39, Mt 22:1-14

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today’s Scriptures reveal two stark truths: God honors our fidelity, but He desires hearts surrendered to His wisdom, not our rash promises. In Jephthah’s tragic vow and the King’s lavish feast, we encounter the beauty and cost of divine invitation.

1. Rash Promises vs. Trustful Surrender (Judges 11:29-39a)

Jephthah, victorious by God’s Spirit (v. 29), makes a fatal vow: sacrificing the first thing leaving his home, his daughter. His well-intentioned but reckless oath, rooted in distrust of God’s providence, brings devastation. The Church teaches that vows must align with God’s law (CCC 2101). Jephthah’s tragedy warns against bargaining with God. As Pope Francis cautions: “Do not make deals with God; He doesn’t need them. Instead, entrust your weakness to Him.”

2. The Invitation and the Garment (Matthew 22:1-14)

The King’s feast is ready, yet guests refuse, even killing messengers. The hall fills with “bad and good alike” (v. 10), but one man rejects the wedding garment—a symbol of grace. The feast is Heaven; the garment is sanctifying grace—Christ’s righteousness (Rev 19:8). Refusing it is rejecting conversion. As St. Augustine explains: “The garment is love. Without it, no one enters the feast.”

Divine Generosity & Demand: God’s call is universal (v. 9), but requires receptivity. Pope Benedict XVI taught: “Salvation is pure gift—yet we must ‘put on Christ’ (Gal 3:27) daily.”

Strength for Today: When life distracts you from God’s call (like the guests), return to the feast. Clothe yourself in grace through prayer, sacraments, and charity.

Unifying Hope:
Jephthah’s daughter foreshadows Christ’s perfect sacrifice: the Lamb who said, “Not my will, but Yours” (Lk 22:42). Her “yes” to her father’s vow, though misguided, points to Jesus’ redemptive surrender.

In our daily lives,

• Examine your vows: Are your promises rooted in trust or control?
• Wear the garment: Accept God’s grace daily. Reject self-sufficiency.
• Come to the feast: Even amid suffering (Ps 39:12), say with St. Thérèse: “Everything is grace.”

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, the King’s table is set. Christ’s sacrifice turns our Jephthah-like tragedies into eternal victory. Say yes to His will—not with rashness, but with David’s trust. Clad in the garment of His love, you will rejoice at the feast forever. Amen.