This week in our series titled “It’s Like This”, Pastor Bob shared with us about the parable Jesus tells in Matthew 20 about a landowner who hires workers throughout the day to work in his field. The workers are hired at different times; some early in the morning, some in the afternoon, and some later in the evening. Regardless of what time they started working and how many hours they worked, at the end of the day all of the workers were paid the exact same wage. Understandably, the workers who were hired at the start of the day were displeased that they received the same wages as those who were hired at the end of the day. The landowner points out that the payment is fair because it was agreed upon with no other stipulations. He also states, “Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?”
Jesus uses this parable to describe something very specific about the kingdom of heaven. Comparison creates trouble. As believers, it is very easy to see other Christians and think, “At least I don’t represent my faith like that!” Or for somebody to spend their entire life in the church, knowing Jesus for as long as they can remember, and think less of somebody who has only just recently accepted Christ into their hearts. This leads down a slippery slope of jealousy, resentment, and anger, the last emotion directed at God for His assumed “lack” of fairness or judgment. We should never harbor negative thoughts when new believers emerge, or if their faith spurs them on to greater things than we have sought. These are cause for celebration! The Lord is at work! His light is being spread further and wider! Who do you have the opportunity to celebrate this week? Who is in your life that is an example of God’s beautiful workmanship? Encourage them! Support them! God will be glorified!
