Sean Roberts, one of the interns at our church, preached Sunday on Matthew 20 and the parable where the owner of the vineyard pays those who work only 1 hour a full day’s wage–the same he paid those who worked all day in the heat. During the sermon Sean mused that we, “default so often to a contractual christianity.” Either we ask “What do I have to do to get… [some hoped-for blessing]” or we ask, “I’ve done such and such–what do I get for that?”
Can you relate? Ever have someone with less experience get paid the same or higher than you? The owner of the vineyard reminds the workers that they got what they were promised. The problem, he said, was that the grumbling workers begrudged his generosity. Or how about thinking that if you are more consistent in your spiritual disciplines that you’ll feel closer to God, have a better marriage, etc? Contractual Christianity.
Sean, the pastoral intern, reminded us of two things. First, notice that there are two groups: those who know they have gotten more than they deserve and those who think they are owed more. Second, he also reminded us that the owner deals gently with those who are anger and bitter. That reminded me of how the father treats the son when the prodigal comes back. He gently encourages the older son to take joy in the opportunity for grace.
Sean left us with this thought. God’s generosity is far better than our ideas of fairness.
Musings on Faith and Psychology 