The parables of Jesus are always full of images and that is why they are easily understood in the practical sense.
The parables are also easily understood at the first encounter in that they make sense and are logical.
For example, the parable that Jesus told in today's gospel passage is easily understood in the practical and logical sense.
Certainly a piece from a new cloak sown onto a old cloak would look awkward, and new wine would certainly be too strong for old wine skins.
But at a deeper and in a spiritual sense, it is not so much about the difference but rather about the similarities.
Because, as the 1st reading would put it, God wanted all perfection to be found in Christ and all things to be reconciled through Him and for Him.
By His death on the cross, He brought about peace and reconciliation.
So today's gospel parable acknowledges the existing differences between persons and communities, between races and countries, and between religions and religious practices.
But because of Jesus and His death on the cross, we know that acceptance in the midst of differences is possible.
Let us begin by accepting and adjusting to the ways of the people around us, so that there will be peace, harmony and understanding.