40 Day Bible Reading Challenge: Day 18 Jesus and the First will be Last and the Last will be First Parable

 

Matthew Chapter 20 of the Holy Bible tells a story Jesus shared about a landowner who hires workers for his vineyard at different times throughout the day. Early in the morning, he agrees to pay the first group of workers a day's wage. As the day goes on, he hires more workers at several points, even up to the last hour of the workday. At the end of the day, he pays all the workers the same amount, regardless of how long they worked. This upsets the workers who started early, as they feel it's unfair. Jesus uses this parable to illustrate that in the Kingdom of Heaven, it's not about how long you've been faithful or how much work you've done; God's generosity is the same for everyone who believes, no matter when they come to faith.

Then, Jesus talks again about his upcoming suffering, death, and resurrection. He tells his disciples plainly that they're going to Jerusalem, where he will be handed over to the authorities, condemned to death, mocked, flogged, and crucified. But he also assures them he will rise again on the third day. This is significant because it shows Jesus knew exactly what was going to happen to him and that he was willing to go through it for the sake of humanity.

Lastly, the mother of James and John, two of Jesus' disciples, asks Jesus to grant her sons special positions in his kingdom. Jesus responds by asking if they are ready to share in his suffering, hinting at the sacrifices they would need to make. He explains that greatness in his kingdom isn't about power or position but about serving others. Jesus emphasizes that he came to serve and give his life for many, teaching that true leadership is found in servitude and sacrifice for the good of others.