One of the more challenging parables of Jesus is the one that we listen to today: The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard.
It is challenging because it may upend our sense of fairness. The ones who work a single hour at the end of the workday are paid the same amount as those who labored all day. That is not fair!
It’s not fair until we stop to reflect on the words of the owner: he gave the first hired what they agreed to accept for the job; it’s his vineyard and his money, he can do with it what he wants. He is not fair; that is, one who gives only what is deserved; he is generous. He gives to all abundantly as he wishes.
The parable reminds us of two important lessons: God owes us nothing but is generous in calling us and blessing us; and, it’s never too late to respond to His invitation.
God did not have to create us, let alone invite us to know Him and serve Him and to receive His blessings - above all, the promise of eternal life in His presence. Nevertheless, He calls us to this very thing. And He never gives up looking for us to come and follow Him. Even down to the last hour, He seeks us out and calls us to come to His vineyard.
We should never begrudge the last-minute converts, the “johnnies come lately” of life, nor think that’s the way to go. None of us knows when the hour is too late to receive the call. So, if you have labored faithfully for most or all your life, you should know the joy of serving the Lord and are grateful for the fact that we have felt, without the sin of presumption, the preview of our reward.
We should be grateful also that God is always ready to give us a last chance - We may need it!
Next Sunday, to mark Respect Life Sunday and as a part of our Eucharistic Revival, following the noon Mass, we will expose the Blessed Sacrament for a period of adoration and prayer, concluding the hour with a brief procession around Saints Peter and Paul Church and ending with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. I hope that you will make some time to come and join us for this time of prayer.