This Sunday, we are learning:
Parable of the Workers in the Field
Matthew 20:1 -16
Before Jesus told this parable, a rich young man had approached the Lord to ask how he could earn his way into heaven (Matthew 19). Jesus told the man that if he wanted to earn eternal life, he needed to be perfect. The young man went away sad. In response to this, Jesus explained to His disciples that “kingdom economics” differed from what people were used to—that rich men have a difficult time entering the kingdom of heaven. In response to this, Peter wanted to know what the reward would be for the disciples who gave up everything to follow Jesus (Matthew 19:27). Jesus said that in the kingdom there would be rewards, but those rewards would look different from what the disciples expected: many of the last would be first and the first, last.
Knowing this context helps us understand what Jesus was trying to say through this parable: If we want to deal with God on the basis of fairness on our terms, we’ll be in for a shock. No one in the parable of the workers in the vineyard was dealt with unfairly. Everyone got at least what he’d been promised. Though God’s grace doesn’t always look like what we expect, we can always be sure it’s His best for us.
2 Corinthians 12:9, He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” What things in your life do you consider weaknesses or shortcomings? Do you feel discouraged by a difficult situation or relationship? Maybe God desires to show you, through your faith community and through His Spirit, that His strength is made perfect in your weakness. May God give you the strength you need to see that His grace is more than sufficient for you.
Knowing this context helps us understand what Jesus was trying to say through this parable: If we want to deal with God on the basis of fairness on our terms, we’ll be in for a shock. No one in the parable of the workers in the vineyard was dealt with unfairly. Everyone got at least what he’d been promised. Though God’s grace doesn’t always look like what we expect, we can always be sure it’s His best for us.
2 Corinthians 12:9, He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” What things in your life do you consider weaknesses or shortcomings? Do you feel discouraged by a difficult situation or relationship? Maybe God desires to show you, through your faith community and through His Spirit, that His strength is made perfect in your weakness. May God give you the strength you need to see that His grace is more than sufficient for you.
Habits of the Household
by Justin Earley I had a parent reach out to me this week to share how meaningful this book has been to their family. Life seems to get busier and busier unless we intentionally practice slow productivity. How do the habits of your household practice the story of God in everyday rhythms? If you say, I'm not sure but I would like them to. Click on the image of the book to read more about this book and author. |