Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Growing up as the middle of three boys, there were plenty of opportunities to object to my parents: “That’s not fair!” I can think back on the portions of food or drink given to us, permissions to play with friends, or even television time — if any one of us felt that it was not equal to our brother’s, we might have been quick to cry out. Most of us learn about fairness early on in life, and though we demand fairness in situations, we come to find out that life does not always play out fairly.

The laborers who were called at dawn and bore the day’s burden and the heat had to learn a similar lesson. When their later coworkers received the same wage for far less work, they grumbled when at their usual daily wage. The owner’s action shows no violation of justice, and the fact that all the laborers receive the same wage is due only to his generosity to the latest arrivals.

If we worked from the early morning, we might feel resentment and envy. If we worked less and received the same pay, we would probably feel grateful. God is merciful, and His mercy extends to all people. This reality should be a cause of rejoicing in God’s mercy, not a disappointment. The Lord says, “Do I find pleasure in the death of the wicked? Do I not rejoice when they turn from their evil way and live?” (Ez 18:23).

Those of us who attended Mass and pray regularly, must not grow weary, feeling frustrated or even angry at those who stray from Christ, nor should we grumble at those who are indifferent to the Gospel. Grumbling or being judgmental will be of no spiritual value to us since it does not build up God’s kingdom nor does it make us more loving. Regardless of how long we have been laboring for the sake of the kingdom, gratitude for our faith in God will help us combat the burden of resentment.

Reflection Question: What is the role of gratitude in my prayer life? Do I adequately give thanks for the mercy God shows me?

Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB