The parable of the two sons starts with a “forced choice” question. As parents, we would rather prefer a third option. But Jesus crafted the story this way to emphasize the “changing of the mind,” the point of “turning around.” Better the end than the beginning, said the Wiseman. And our “turning around” in life may be a sign for others, in the same way the repentance of John’s listeners was a sign for those listening to Jesus.
