Matthew 20:1-16           Unequal opportunities

The parables of Jesus challenge our certainties about the world. Today, we hear the story of the landowner who pays the same wages to all the workers. Although they receive the promised wage, the ‘early birds’ feel hard done by. Perhaps we can relate. Our individualistic culture tells us that only some people deserve a decent standard of living. But this narrative ignores the reality that people do not have equal opportunities or privileges in life. In this Season of Creation, we are mindful in particular of those who suffer as a result of environmental damage caused by the comfortable lifestyle of others. One example of this is the palm oil industry. A popular ingredient in foods and cosmetic products, the production of palm oil contributes to the large-scale destruction of tropical forests, loss of habitat for endangered species, soil erosion and loss of livelihood.

Earth is our common home. Like the labourers, every person on Earth deserves equal dignity and the means to flourish. It is deeply unjust that a large percentage of the world’s population suffers from poverty, simply by virtue of being born in a particular place. In today’s parable, Jesus subverts expectations: everyone is to be treated equally, regardless of their opportunities or productivity. Instead of self-interest, we are called to deep concern for the Common Good. Jesus concludes with the refrain: “the last will be first, and the first will be last”. Not only is there no discrimination in the Kingdom, but we are to go beyond what might appear fair and give preferential treatment to those who are without privilege. In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis summons us to a “preferential option for the poor” referring to the trend throughout the Scriptures of God siding with the most vulnerable and powerless people. Solidarity with the world’s poorest involves an honest examination of our attitudes and lifestyles, making choices that propel us forward into a world where “the last will be first”. Copyright © Triona Doherty & Jane Mellett, 2022. The Deep End. A Journey with the Sunday Gospels in the Year of Matthew.

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“The rejection of every form of self-centeredness and self-absorption are essential if we truly wish to care for our brothers and sisters and for the natural environment. These attitudes also attune us to the moral imperative of assessing the impact of our every action and personal decision on the world around us.                                         – Pope Francis