Homily: Twentieth Wednesday of Ordinary Time
Twentieth Wednesday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 20:1-16) “Fair or Unfair?”
In Palestine, in the first century, there were many “day laborers” who would go to a town square in the morning to look for work. If they got a job, it would probably only last for the day and pay only enough money to support their families for that day. The next morning, the bread winner would have to go back to the square and start the process again.
We can only imagine the anxiety the workers felt when they went to find work. It must have been humiliating to go away unemployed for the day. Those that were sickly were probably not going to get selected.
When I try to picture this scene, I think of some of the migrant workers that we have in our country. They travel from place to place and pick our vegetables and fruits. It is tiring work. They are paid by how much they harvest and make minimal wages. If they are sick or hurt, then they are out of luck.
There are several curious things about Jesus’ story. One question is, why did the workers show up later in the day? Did they have to travel from a longer distance? Were they lazy? Did they lack hope? The owner of the vineyard seems to feel sorry for them. He hires each person no matter when and why they show up. This would be shocking to anyone who knew the system.
Another thing that is surprising, he pays everyone the same amount. At first it would seem unfair, but unfair to who? It would be unfair to the owner who is paying the wages. He was being generous to the late comers in giving them the usual daily wage.
We could use this story to try to explain several religious situations. For example, what about the person who does not believe in Christ until they are on their death bed. Do they get less of a heavenly reward than the person who is a devout Christian their whole life? The church would say yes. God does not operate like your typical capitalist. God extends abundant mercy no matter how long it takes for a person to say, “I believe.”
Reflection Questions:
- Should people who convert to Christianity later be looked upon as being less Christian than those who are followers of Jesus their whole life? When did I first start to believe?
- Does this story reassure me or make me angry? Why?
Dear Parishioners,
On Monday I went to the Court of Honor for the Scouts. Many of the Scouts had earned merit badges over the summer. It was gratifying to see how the young people are enjoying this program and growing.
I was asked at a certain point to come forward for a gift. I was unsure what this was all about. But I was presented with a check for $1656 that was raised by our Scout families. This was for our TTT Capital Campaign. This was very gratifying. It is through gifts, big and small, that we will reach our goal of having a new Gathering Space.
I think the Scouts deserve a pat on the back for this gift and for the many ways they have served our parish. Whenever we need some muscle, they are more than willing to help.
Thank you Scouts!
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.
Fr. Mark