Today’s Reading: Matthew 20:1-16
Today’s Verse: So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen. Mathew 20:16 KJV
We all have our moments when we seek to understand the mind of God.
We desire to understand His ways but have trouble really understanding why He does the things He does.
We get angry when we feel God has given more to others.
The book of Job is a good example.
The author of Job wondered why God would punish the most righteous man on the face of the earth.
Despite all that Job went through he kept the faith, and it all worked out for his good.
God blessed him in every area of his life.
As we read today’s parable Jesus is telling us about how some workers in the field felt about what they considered paychecks (Matthew 20:1-16 KJV).
Some individuals who had been idly standing around were hired by a landowner at “the eleventh hour” (Matthew 20:6-7 KJV).
They received the same pay as if they had worked the entire day.
The other workers that had been serving him all day long were shocked when this happened.
They questioned why an employer would pay the same amount for one hour’s work as for twelve.
Although this story makes no economic sense, it has great meaning.
Jesus used this parable to show us what grace means.
It is the free and perfect favor of God. It is manifested in the salvation of sinners just like it is for those who have already labored in His name.
All who believe in Him are granted His magnificent gift of blessings.
Something that cannot be calculated like a day’s wages.
He gives honor and credit to all who seek to live according to the Word.
We are to steer clear of every proud claim. Never letting feelings of envy overtake our lives.
It is a grief to us. Displeasing to God. Hurtful to our neighbors.
It is a sin that has neither pleasure, profit, nor honor.
When we live sinfully, we miss the other blessings He has for our lives.
In the Kingdom of Grace, the word “deserve” does not apply.
It does not matter when we come to faith or how much we have served.
God’s grace and generosity extends to all who believe.
To be His chosen is the greatest thing to happen in our lives.
Let us always be found rejoicing and praising God.
Thanking Him for His mercy to others as well as ourselves.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Savior, sometimes we forget that our efforts cannot earn Your love. We fail to see how graceful You are. We forget how forgiving You are. That You look at all of us in the same manner. That we all receive great blessings the more we abide by the Word. Help us to remember that no matter how You bless each of us we are to be thankful. Rejoicing over all the blessings we receive. Giving You praise because You take care of all of us. Thank You for giving us all the opportunity to be blessed.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen