by Sister Ann Rehrauer
The Parable of the Vineyard in Matthew is one in a series in
chapters 21 and 22, describing the Kingdom of God. It's a
perfect reading for this time of the year when all of us are
focused on harvesting the vegetables from our gardens, or
purchasing the fruits of others' labor at farmers' markets.
We know how hard we work to facilitate growth and how much we look
forward to the good things we've planted and nurtured. We
also know how disappointed we are if drought or birds or bugs
destroy our crops.
God planted a vineyard (Israel) and expected a fruitful harvest of
justice and care for the poor. Instead, the "tenants" of the
vineyard gave back little. When God sent the prophets and
finally his own Son to call the people to greater responsibility,
they treated the messengers badly and even killed some. So
God's promise and choice passed to a new people, the Church.
As members of this "new Israel," you and I are called to bring
forth the fruits enumerated by Paul in his letter to the
Philippians: being honorable, just and gracious -- doing what we
have learned and seen and heard from the Scriptures and from the
example of the apostles and all true believers.
This week as we enjoy fresh tomatoes, squash, and other garden
produce, may it remind us that we are called to be the harvest of
justice for God's Kingdom -- which includes graciously sharing what
we have and who we are with those in need.
Thank you, Sister Ann, for the thought-provoking words on the parable.
Thanks for the reminder to be just, gracious, and honorable in all the work we do.
Thanks, Ann. Our call to be the harvest of justice for God's kingdom is a good incentive to get out of bed in the morning.
Inspiring reflection. Thank you.
What a true privilege and responsibility to share God's spiritual harvest with others! Go Annie!