Fair Deal
READ: Matthew 20:1-16
Jesus told this parable to his Disciples right after a young man had come to him boasting of the good he had done all his life. Field workers were hired at different times of the day, but were paid the same wages when the work was done. The point of Jesus’ story was to show the nature of his giving love to those who serve Him.
Some people, like you perhaps, become God’s children in Baptism when they are babies. They love and serve Jesus all their lives. Some people don’t learn about Jesus until they are grown up. Others become friends of Jesus when they are grandmothers or grandfathers.
Jesus wanted His disciples and us to know that He loves all His friends the same. He loves those people who have just recently come to know Him as much as those who have followed Him for a lifetime. In our limited understanding, we may not find that fair. We may think that, if we're among those who have served Jesus all our lives, we have been short-changed.
But Jesus asks us to be happy about every new friend He receives. He reminds us that someday all of us will be together in heaven, sharing God’s love. Newcomers and old-timers alike will be blessed.
Rejoice in God’s love. His love for others doesn’t lessen His love for you.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: Do any of us deserve God’s grace? Why then should we think it unfair if some people come to know of God’s gracious gift later in life? Why can we be happy over everyone who repents and believes in Jesus?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Ask that you will never become selfish. Ask Jesus to help you receive the love He has given you. Also ask that He will help you to share it with others.