Chronological Reading Plan for Oct 31, Mt 20, 21

Today's readings are Mt 20, 21. Tomorrow's reading is Lk 10.

Mt 20 sets the expectations for salvation. Everyone gets the same salvation. There are none who get more saved, more of the Spirit, more privileges. The crucial factor in salvation is a contrite heart, a repentant spirit and a transformed life, not longevity in faith, status or role.

Ironically, immediately after relating this lesson, two of the disciples try to jockey for a prime position in heaven. In response, Jesus heals two blind men, as if to say, "You're not getting it yet! Both of you are blind and need to see just as these two blind men need to see!"  Jesus’s implication is that the disciples should be seeking Jesus rather than lofty positions.

Little children begin to praise Jesus in the Temple, after he cleanses it of thieves and robbers, proclaiming it a "house of prayer for all nations." The same priests who saw nothing wrong with unsavory vendors in the courtyard of the temple now condemn the children for praising God and calling Jesus "Son of David". Jesus reminds the priests that Scripture says God ordains praise for Himself from "babes and infants". 

Jesus's answer is brilliant. It insists the children be allowed to continue in their praise. It also shows that the children, who are praising Jesus, are also praising God. Jesus is telling the priests that He is God. The answer Jesus gives also affirms the spirituality and faith of the young ones, despite their age. This is intended to be a rebuke to the priests who consider themselves not only older and wiser than the children, but older and wiser than Jesus.