Beth Voltmann
Feb 282 min
by Beth Voltmann
The song “Is He Worthy” keeps running through my mind...
Do you feel the world is broken? (We do)
Do you feel the shadows deepen? (We do)
This parable reminds us that time is passing. It has been over 2000 years since Jesus walked this earth to show us the way of the kingdom of heaven, and he was focused on faithfully carrying out the Father’s business.
“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work...”
(John 4:34)
In Matthew 20, Jesus illustrates the need for workers in the fields of the kingdom. God (the landowner) is looking for those who will first believe, and then, help to bring in the harvest.
Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
Jesus answered, “The work of God is this; to believe in the one he has sent.” (John 6:28-29)
“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)
And the landowner goes seeking workers:
Those who are obedient begin early to follow God’s call (v.1-2)
A few more soon answer and go into the fields - the third hour (v. 3-4)
Others turn their hearts and hands to the work much later—sixth and ninth hours (v. 5)
But some may just now be responding to the voice of Jesus—the eleventh hour (v. 6-7)
And the promised wages? Actually, it’s the same promise for any who join in the kingdom work.
“For the Wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
(Romans 6:23)
Perhaps it is the eleventh hour. The world certainly feels more broken, the shadows deeper, and yet, God is still calling. Soon the Lord will come—the harvest will be gathered in. As we stand in the presence of the Lord, will we grumble as did the early workers in the parable? (v. 11)
THE LAST FIRST?
THE FIRST LAST?
I hear there is currently a spiritual revival taking place at a university in Florida. The kingdom of heaven is receiving new workers at the eleventh hour! Instead of grumbling, may we rejoice with the angels as each fellow worker receives their equal reward!
“Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Revelation 22:12)
Lord, we do not understand your kingdom economy of “last but not least”. What amazing grace! We celebrate your mysterious ways and give you praise. On the day you return, may you find us diligently working in your fields with satisfaction, joy, and anticipation.