This week we begin a series of Jesus’ parables with the ‘parable of the vineyard.
This parable reminds us of God’s generous love, which is given out of grace, not because of hard work or merit.
Worship with Holy Communion this week:
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship
Devotions for the week:
March 1, 2015 “Laborers in the Vineyard”
“[The landowner said,] ‘Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” Matthew 20:15-16
Study: Our sense of fairness is challenged in this parable. Many of us have been raised to believe we get what we earn. To imagine someone else might receive what we receive for having earned far less challenges our sensibilities. But what if we are not the laborer who has earned a day’s wage? What if we are the laborer who cannot possibly work hard enough or long enough to earn a day’s wage? Perhaps Jesus was teaching here that God offers love more abundantly than anyone can possibly earn.
Read: Follow the parables and teachings of Jesus, as Jesus challenged followers to do more for God’s kingdom.
Sunday, Matthew 20:1-16, Laborers in the Vineyard
Monday, Psalm 16:5-8, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 16:1-12, Teachings of Jesus
Wednesday, Matthew 16:13-23, Jesus Foretells His Death
Thursday, Matthew 17:9-27, Teachings of Jesus
Friday, Matthew 18:10-14, Parables of Jesus
Saturday, Matthew 19:1-30, Teachings of Jesus
- What is God’s role in the parables Jesus told?
- What would happen if Jesus’ idea of abundant generosity was played out in your community?
- What difference does it make to your life that you have been given abundant, unearned, generous love from God?
Do: Notice how practicing abundant generosity changes you. Perhaps be an extravagant tipper this week
Bless: Generous God, our hearts are sometimes stingy. Speak love to us in the reading of your word. Amen.
