Two Sons and a Vineyard

Jesus told a story about a father with two sons. One day he asked them to work in his vineyard, where grapes grew.

First he spoke to one son.

The son said he did not want to go. Those were not kind words.

But later he thought about his answer, changed his mind, and went to work.

The father also spoke to the other son.

This son said he would go. His words sounded respectful.

But he did not keep his promise. He never went to the vineyard.

The first son began caring for the grapes. His actions changed his answer.

Jesus asked which son had done what his father wanted.

It was the first one, who refused at first but then went.

This story helps us think about our words and actions.

Saying yes can be easy. Doing what we say matters too.

If we promise to put away toys, we can begin picking them up. If we say we will share, we can offer a turn.

And if we answered unkindly, we can still admit it and change.

We do not have to stay stuck in our first mistake. We can say, “I'm sorry. I'll try again,” and then do what is right.

God wants to help us live with love, beyond saying nice words.

This does not mean doing everything anyone asks. If something frightens or hurts you, tell a trusted grown-up.

In this story the father asked for a good task. Jesus invites our actions to go with our words.

Jesus tells us a story, and his love stays with us.