Jesus clarified the underlying principle for membership in the kingdom of heaven: Entrance is by God’s grace alone. In this parable, God is the landowner and believers are the workers. The parable speaks especially to those who feel superior because of heritage or position, to those who feel superior because they have spent so much time with Jesus, and to new believers as reassurance of God’s grace.
This parable is not about monetary rewards for working hard but about God’s favour freely given to all. It is a strong teaching about grace – God’s generosity. Don’t begrudge those who turn to God in the last moments of life, because in reality, no one deserves eternal life.
Many people we don’t expect to see in heaven will be there. The criminal who repented as he was dying will be there along with people who have believed and served God for many years.
Don’t compare your gifts, your experiences of healing, or even the depth of your relationship with Jesus. Instead, focus on God’s gracious benefits to you, and be thankful for what you have.
