Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost
That’s Not Fair
There are probably times in life when all of us have said, “That’s not fair.” Children, teenagers, and adults are all guilty of feeling that way at one time or another.
Have you ever thought that God isn’t being fair?
Have you made choices in life, and they turned out to be good choices, and you felt as if God is most likely happy with you? Have you made bad choices in life? How do you think God felt about that? Did you ask for forgiveness? Did you deserve it? Did God show you grace?
In the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, the workers were given jobs, but they each worked different amounts of time while making the same wage. This is what they had to say: “That’s not fair!” Right?
Jesus is telling this story to explain the participation rules of the kingdom of heaven. It is about the grace of God, not how long you have been a believer. When Jesus was on the cross, the dying thief asked Jesus to remember him. There will be individuals who will be in the kingdom of heaven that you might not expect to be there. No matter when we become a believer and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we will be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven.
God’s grace is there for anyone at any time! It’s not about time served. It’s about accepting God’s grace, no matter what age you are. It is there and waiting for you.
Scarlett Dowdy, program manager
Laurel Ridge Camp Conference and Retreat Center
Laurel Springs, North Carolina