Do we look at what others have and want more or can we be happy for the blessings that others receive? Austin Kleman, SJ, reflects on the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. Based on the readings for Sunday, September 24, 2023.
That’s not fair; I deserve more than them!
Hi, my name is Austin Kleman, and this is my One-Minute Reflection.
“Are you envious because I am generous?”
In today’s Gospel, we hear about laborers who received the same pay regardless of how long they worked. A first impression might claim the landowner was being unjust by paying the same wage to those who only worked for an hour. But I want to challenge that perspective and ask, “What did the landowner see in the laborers?”
I think the landowner saw people who needed money to support their families and children. I believe the landowner saw the laborers waiting all day for work and knew they were trying their best. Yet, how often are we envious of the gifts others receive?
The first laborers saw the last ones paid a full day’s wage, and instead of being excited for their fellow laborers, they were envious. Unlike those envious laborers, how can we be joyful for the gifts God gives to others?
