A homily for the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity, by Fr. Jerome Leckband.
In the parable of the wedding feast, Jesus teaches us that we cannot make ourselves ready to stand before God. From the beginning, after Adam and Eve sinned, God provided what they could not provide for themselves. So also, we cannot cover our sin and shame with our own good works or righteousness. Instead, God clothes us with the righteousness of His Son, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself on the cross for our forgiveness and eternal life. In Holy Baptism, Christ washes us clean, clothes us in His righteousness, and makes us His holy bride. Yet some reject His gracious invitation, while others seek to stand before Him trusting in their own works rather than His promise.
Our righteousness does not come from our efforts, but from Christ alone. Because He has united Himself to us and clothed us in His righteousness, we need not live in fear or be troubled by our sins or the sins others commit against us. Christ is our salvation, and in Him we have forgiveness, life, and peace for our consciences.
Listen to the full homily below.