13 “But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius?
I think this one parable can probably be used to teach a lot of lessons. Its interesting the way its laid out. Its designed to create the teachable moments by making sure those that worked all day knew that those that worked for only an hour or so received the same pay. Had he paid the ones who started working earliest first they would have got their denarius as agreed and left happy campers not even being aware that the others were paid the same.
So I think at least one message in here is Grace. It doesn't matter when we come to God if we are 14, 44 or 84 the gift of eternal life with him is the same. You don't earn it, thank goodness.
Different than this story, I don't think about it being unfair that someone who recently found God gets the same reward. But I do remember having some immature thoughts about living how I want when I was a teen then making sure to be right with God before I die. Talk about rolling the dice. That way I could try to get some girls, party and do fun stuff but still go to heaven. I think when I was a kid I equated being a Christian to not having a fun life. Now I see it so differently.
i'm done rambling, I could have just said its all about Grace.
knut
I think youre right on. The life that God calls us to live, is really for the benefit of both of us. We think of it as taking the "fun" out of life. But, really if we live in a Godly manner, our lives become much more rewarding. I heard a sermon a couple of weeks ago where the pastor said, "God never promised that you would live a happy life.....he only promised you a life with purpose and power". I think the same lesson applies here.
ReplyDeleteThe funny thing to me about the story is the selfishness, and greed. I can completely understand the grumbling from those that worked the longest. But, when you think about it, its pretty laughable.
It must be pretty humorous and depressing to be up in heaven looking down on all of us. Making crazy self-centered decisions based on greed and the pursuit of personal growth.