September 24, Ordinary 25A (Philippians 1:21–30; Matthew 20:1–16)
The work of advancing the kingdom doesn't translate into fair compensation as we understand it.
In this week’s text from Philippians, Paul looks forward to resting in the presence of Christ—while also rejoicing in the ability to continue the work he is called to do. He suggests that his rejoicing would be even greater if he were to stay, since he would take joy not just in his own salvation and growth but in the subsequent salvation and growth of those who come after him. As he considers the work he and others are engaged in to further the kingdom, his attitude seems to be this: the more the merrier.
Work figures prominently in the passage from Matthew as well. When Peter asks what Jesus’ followers will receive for having given up everything they own to follow him, Jesus assures him that they will receive more than they have given up—and eternal life besides. But then he adds a strange postscript to this assurance: “Many who are first will be last, and the last will be first” (19:30). And then he tells the story of the laborers in the vineyard.
A landowner goes out looking for workers for his vineyard. At the beginning of the day he offers a full day’s wages to the first workers he hires. As the day progresses, he hires more workers—but he pays each group the same day’s wages for decreasing amounts of work. This upsets those who started earlier and worked longer. The landowner rebukes them for their complaints and declares that it is his prerogative to do as he pleases with his money.
