In Jesus’ time, laborers waited each day in the marketplace until someone hired them for a day’s work. No work that day usually meant no food on the family table. In the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, we see God as remarkably generous, showing great compassion to those who labor for Him, whether it’s from the early morning or just a few hours at the end of the day. The laborers who worked all day and received their pay complained that the master paid the late-afternoon laborers the same wage. The master hired them in the late afternoon so they would not walk home empty-handed. He was being generous on purpose.

 

God opens the doors of His kingdom to those who have labored a lifetime for Him and to those who come at the last hour. While the reward is the same, the motive for one’s labor can make all the difference. Some work only for pay. They put in only as much effort as they think they will get back. Others labor out of love and joy for the opportunity to work and to serve others. Jesus calls each one of us to serve God and His kingdom with passion and to serve our neighbor with a generous spirit. Christ calls us to labor for His honor and glory — and with that same love, to labor for the good of our neighbor. 

 

Have a peaceful day.

 

Yours in Christ,

Father Edward Domme