The First and the Last

Jesus told a parable that makes a lot of people upset to this day. He described a vineyard owner who was hiring people throughout the day, but here’s the catch: the owner gave the people he hired at the end of the day the same wages as those who worked all day (see Matthew 20:1-16). We get upset reading this story. Why? Because it isn’t fair.

The story ends with Jesus saying, “‘Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last” (Matthew 20:15-16, ESV). We really struggle with this kingdom principle. We feel like we deserve more than other people — Most of us wouldn’t say we’re the best, but we all feel better than at least a few other people out there — because we’re smarter than them or work harder or whatever.

Then God turns around and blesses someone who isn’t “as good” as us. We get angry with God. We feel like we have to fight for blessings.

Look at the story of Jacob and Esau. As they were being born, Jacob grabbed his older brother’s heel. Even then he was wrestling for a double portion by pulling his brother down. Think about the promise God had given Jacob’s mother, though. “Two nations are in your womb…the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger.” (Genesis 25:23). If Jacob had succeeded, he would’ve served Esau. Have you ever thought about that?

That’s what happens to us when we try to elbow our way to the front. When we wrestle our way into a position of power and authority over others, we end up hurting ourselves.  

You’ve probably heard the parable of the prodigal. The younger son wasted all of his inheritance then came back, and his father showered blessings on him. The older brother got mad because it isn’t fair. What did the father tell him? “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours” (Luke 15:31). God is telling us, “Just trust me. I have blessings for the younger brother, the lesser ones; but older brothers, I have enough blessings for you too.” God has more to give to us than we even have the ability to receive.