Matt. 20:1-16 – This parable would not sit well with American labor laws, but remember, this parable is not about labor laws or fairness. It is about the generosity and grace of God. He wants everyone to receive the fruits of His Kingdom, and none of us earn those fruits, no matter how much of our lives have been spent in serving Him. I doubt if anyone is going to experience envy in Heaven, but some, I fear, would argue with God here on earth regarding those whom He receives. The Kingdom of God is not like our earthly administration of justice and equity. “The first shall be last, and the last shall be first.”
Matt. 20:20-28 – Jesus had just divulged important information about His suffering and death to the disciples on His way to Jerusalem. When John’s and James’ mother made such an audacious request of Jesus, His response was to question their willingness to “drink the cup” He had just told them He would have to drink. Like Peter would later say, they both agreed they were ready. But Jesus wanted them to finally understand the nature of greatness in His Kingdom. Again, it would not be like an earthly kingdom where men/women vie for position and authority. Jesus made it crystal clear – if you want to be great, SERVE. Subject yourself to your fellow brother and sister and SERVE. Subject yourself to your wife/husband and SERVE. Subject yourself to those who do not know God and SERVE. Make yourself last, and Jesus will recognize your greatness. Eph. 5:21, “ . . . and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.”
Matt. 20:29-34 – Once again, we see Jesus moved with compassion. Jesus never stopped being moved when presented with people’s plight. People who lack compassion concern me greatly, because they have lost the very emotion that moved Jesus to leave heaven.