Matthew 20:1-16 - The parable of the laborers in the vineyard in the Gospel lesson for
this coming week reminds us that God’s generosity is equal to all. When payment
time came for the laborers in the vineyard, it was learned that each was to
receive equal pay regardless of hours worked. The reward is the same in the
kingdom whether we enter early or late. The thief on the cross receives the
same reward as the faithful Christian who lives eighty plus years. Are we to
spurn God’s generosity?
In the Lessons for this week the Gospel, as usual,
gives the key to the theme of the day. When a payment time comes for the
laborers in the vineyard, it was learned that each was to receive equal pay
regardless of hours worked. The reward is the same in the Kingdom whether we
enter early or late.
When Jesus repeats Himself pay attention. He never wastes words. He’s not taking up
dead air space. He’s speaking an intense and powerful truth. Never shallow.
Always sincere. Jesus tells us “Many who are first will be last and the last
first.” He speaks these words with respect to Peter’s response.
Pious Peter. He speaks for Himself. He speaks for the
twelve. He speaks for you. Peter reminds the Lord what he has done. He has
sacrificed He’s gone without.
He’s given up, forgone and forfeited many things for
Jesus’ sake. “See we have left everything
and followed you Jesus. What then will we have?”
Jesus’ parable is a reaction to Peter's question.
"We’ve given up everything."
“What's in it for us?” he asks. Jesus tells this parable because mercy is
being challenged. Who are you to spurn God’s mercy?
I mentioned this a week or so ago yet it bears
repeating. Faith believes that God is not a Divine Accountant or Probation
Officer. Rather, He’s an indulgent father. Who throws a party for his indigent
son. He’s like an employer. Who pays
employees a full day’s wage. Even though they only worked an hour.
He’s
like a lavish wedding host. Who provides copious amounts of only the best and
finest wine. He’s your Good Shepherd. Content to leave behind ninety-nine of
His herd in safety. Who will risk all. To save just one, that is lost.
A Prayer For Home and Family -Visit,
we implore You, O Lord, the homes in which Your people dwell, and keep far from
them all harm and danger. Grant us to dwell together in peace under the
protection of Your holy angels, and may Your blessing be with us forever,
through Jesus Christ, our Lord.[1]
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