Matthew 20:1-19

“Those who are last will be first. And those who are first will be last.” Matthew 20:16

In our home, we are bad about desserts. (or maybe it’s “mad” about dessert!) We have some sort of sweet nearly every evening after dinner. Sometimes it’s a small cookie or a piece of chocolate (currently we are still finishing some of the candy from Christmas!) Often, though, it is a pie, a small cake, or even a fresh baked cookie. After we’ve cleaned up from dinner one of us will say, are you ready for dessert?

Now here is the confession, if I’m the one prepping the portions, I’m guilty of nearly always longing for the larger one. Fortunately, (at least for my waistline) I usually give my spouse the choice. I suppose it’s human nature to want more, to be treated better than others, seen as more important, or privileged. The good news is that is not how God treats us.

The goodness of God is always equitable, but not always fair. Just like the vineyard owner gave everyone exactly what they needed, regardless how long they worked. It was just enough, but seemingly unfair.

The thing is, God knows what we need even before we ask. Sometimes, though, we seek more than what we need. Our problem is not in what we get to meet our need, rather it’s in comparison with what others get; eyes too eager for the larger portion. In a Kingdom economy, God forgives much to one, to another only a little, yet to each, it’s everything… and always just enough.

Be satisfied today with God’s provision and give the larger piece of pie to someone else!