But really, this isn’t just a message for one week.
It’s something we are called to live every day, whenever we meet someone who is new, different, or simply needs a bit of welcome.
In today’s Gospel, Matthew 21:28–32, Jesus tells the story of two sons.
The first initially says no to his father, but later changes his mind and goes to work.
The second says yes, but does not go.
Jesus reminds us what matters is not simply what we say, but what we actually do.
This is particularly meaningful as we celebrate the World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
It is easy to say we welcome others, but the Gospel challenges us to make that welcome real through our actions.
How do we treat the person who is new to our community, speaks a different language, or comes from another country?
Our “yes” to God becomes real when we welcome, listen, include and care for others, especially those who may feel like strangers, or who are vulnerable and in need of support.
In this way, our faith moves beyond words and becomes a lived expression of Christ’s love.
And I think that’s something worth remembering: the stranger is not just someone we don’t know.
Sometimes, the stranger can be the very person through whom we encounter, Christ.
One funny thing about coming to Australia as a migrant myself was discovering footy culture.
Soon after arriving, people would ask me, “Which team do you barrack for?”
I discovered this is a very serious question.
Apparently, once you choose a team, you are expected to stay with them for life. Am I correct?
When I first arrived, people asked me which team I supported.
I had no clue, no time for research or reflection.
So I said, “I’ll go for Carlton.”
Why? Because I had heard of Carlton, and I was living in Carlton.
Then, about three years ago, I went to my first live game with Julie and John from the parish, Carlton against Brisbane.
And I realised: I had chosen the wrong team.
I’m really sorry to all the Carlton supporters, but now I support the Brisbane Lions.
And since then, they have been winning.
Maybe I was the lucky charm … just kidding. And they won again last weekend.
But there is something deeper in that story.
When migrants arrive, there are so many things they don’t know, not just the football teams, but the language, customs, traditions, and even the little things that everyone else seems to understand.
So instead of simply asking, “Which team do you barrack for?” perhaps we should also ask: “What’s your name?” or “Where have you come from?” or “How can we help you feel at home?”
And I’m pretty sure many of you already do that.
Welcoming is a two-way journey. Those who arrive have a responsibility to learn, respect and participate.
Those who welcome them need patience, understanding and openness.
We don’t have to become exactly like one another. Respect is the key.
And in Matthew 25:35, Jesus says: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
So, our challenge is simple: Notice one person. Welcome one person. Listen to one person.
Don’t wait for someone else to take the first step. Because, as Pope Leo reminds us, “even one” matters.
And that one person we welcome may just be the Lord Himself.
– Fr Novie Lim, Parish Priest, St Mary’s Catholic Church, Echuca
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