Today’s readings are about the tale of 2 loves. The love of God which is towards all humanity and the love of men, which is directed to self.

In the Genesis reading we see Jacob and his 11 sons, all self serving. Jacob/Israel holding to his own prejudices – loving Joseph more than anyone, even to the neglect of his other 10 sons. Joseph lording over everyone, even probably over his parents. the other 10 sons living in their jealousy and anger, with each having thoughts of how to get even with family and foe. Truly, is this not the way Israel and by extension all humanity has lived its life, in self service.

This is what Jesus is drawing our attention to in the Gospel reading. God’s eternal love for humanity, ever non-judgmental, yet waiting on humanity, providing everything for it (fruit of the vine). Yet we fail to recognise Him, when He come to us, we like Adam and Eve, we push Him out of our lives. Thus, like Adam and Eve, we have cut ourselves from the very source of life. In Jesus is life and life in abundance, and if we push Him out from our lives, how can we have life? We will only be zombies in a way… the dead walking.

It is for each of us to choose, what we want in life. If Life in its fullness, then the choice is only one, and it is clear – Jesus.