The Parable of the Vineyard Workers teaches a profound truth about God’s generosity and grace, as well as the shocking entitlement of the human heart. It also shows us that the Kingdom of Heaven is open to those who would enter it, including those in their last moments of life.
The vineyard’s landowner had been hiring workers all day to work in his fields. Some started early in the morning, while others arrived closer to quitting time. Amazingly, the landowner paid all of them a full day’s wage. This did not sit well with those who had worked all day. They assumed they would receive more than those who had worked only a short time (Matthew 20:11–12). Those complaining forgot how grateful they were to be hired at the beginning of the day!
Notice the answer of the vineyard owner.
But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? (Matthew 20:13–15, KJV)
Are we not thankful that God’s kingdom operates by His grace and generosity, not equality? Those who came early to the kingdom should rejoice in having had much time with the Lord of the vineyard. Those who came late should rejoice that they have not been refused. We should all rejoice; truth be told, none of us was worthy, yet we have all partaken of His generosity and grace!
Thank you for joining me as I read and journal through the Bible chronologically.
Today’s reflection: Matthew 20-21 (Day 305).
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