Matthew 20:12 – “These who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.”
Today’s scripture is an excerpt from Jesus’s parable of the vineyard workers all of whom received the same amount of pay regardless of work arrival time (Matthew 20:1-16). Through this story we glean understanding about Kingdom principles. First, God’s view on fairness can be very different than ours. In seemingly unfair situations because of inequality in the distribution of payment, resources, or even favor the Lord may have superior plans. For like those only laboring an hour yet receiving the same compensation as those toiling for hours, there are times we too have fallen short. However, our Heavenly Father looks beyond our shortcomings and instead we can experience blessings in the gap as He pours out grace, love, and mercy without measure. He provides blessings where we are, versus where we should be.
Another Kingdom principle is the importance of receiving His provisions cheerfully and gratefully. This includes doing so without comparing ours’ to someone else’s portion. Such action leads to resentment and strife. Instead, we can remain focused on Him and rejoice for He chooses to pour out good things to each of us based on His generosity and graciousness and not because of our actions.
A final Kingdom principle is more than a single opportunity can be proffered for receiving a blessing. In the parable, the vineyard owner returned five times to the marketplace extending the opportunity to those willing to work. Likewise, we are loved by a God who graciously gives us multiple opportunities to experience His goodness and provision.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your blessings You graciously extend to us even when we fail to express gratitude. Help us keep our eyes on You and not be tempted to compare ourselves and our situations to others. In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen.
-Phyllis Hooten
