Observation: Jesus is reported to say this phrase several times - the last will be first, and the first will be last. This often gets interpreted as something along the lines of the people who are "last" ... the downtrodden, the destitute, the poor ... will get a greater reward in heaven than those who have a good life. That never feels quite right, though. It sounds like there are "better" Christians, and moreover that the way to be "better" involves having a rough life. However, I feel these last few verses of this parable might better reveal what Jesus means by this phrase.
Everyone receives the same reward. Unfortunately, not everyone may appreciate that reward in the same way. To some, it might represent tremendous generosity, grace, and kindness. To another, it might represent the bare minimum, and even disappointing in context. In this way, 'first' and 'last' are not how the Lord treats us, but rather our own earthly attitude even being applied to the grace of God.
Application: I think this idea of "fair reward" is something that almost every Christian thinks about at some level, and I am so delighted Jesus addressed it. I know there are billions of Christians who are "better" than me and deserve more than me. I know there will be billions of Christians who did almost nothing to advance God's kingdom and could logically deserve less than me. And I know it is AWESOME that ... 'deserves' got nothing to do with it!
I very sincerely hope that when the time comes, I look around and see everyone getting the very same denarius that I get, and I celebrate that, because what that really proves is that the Lord's mercy is just, his justice is merciful, and faith in Jesus is the only truth in the world.
Prayer: Lord, right now there is someone on their deathbed somewhere. I pray they receive Jesus. I pray they then receive the most glorious crown possible. Amen.
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