Matthew 20:1-16

Each week my companion and I write brief exegetical and commentary notes for the Lectionary readings. We developed this resource as a way to help persons that are crafting the children’s sermon (moment) each week for worship in a Christian setting. We call it, Sacred Steps: Children’s Sermon Journal. I’ve decided to post a paragraph on Friday afternoons for one of the readings. The gospel lesson for Sept. 18 is Matthew 20:1-16. Here is a paragraph from the journal.

Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Is your eye evil because I am good?’(Matthew 20:15)

Last week, a king (Lord) demonstrated a generosity that had consequences, namely, the presumed “go and do likewise”, and if you (the forgiven) don’t do likewise, I’ll know about it. That generosity had to do with forgiveness of debts, but it can also be applied to relationships beyond financial agreements. This week, we turn to an overt discussion of “fairness” that did not get touched upon last week. Namely, was it fair for the king to treat the debtor so harshly for not “doing likewise”, since there was no requirement or expectation to do so? I was talking with a group of high school youth and their adults about this text last Sunday, over breakfast. Everyone there agreed that the assumption is the servant would forgive based on his experience of being forgiven. “Shouldn’t you just act that way after someone has been so nice to you?” was the common response. When translated into their own experience, none of them could admit to “doing likewise”. This week the parable seems to have a clear(er) message about the kindom of God; and like last week, it, too, includes a zinger. Do you have a favorite Jesus “zinger” or parable that you return to often?

So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from the heart. (Matthew 18:35)

So, the last will be first, and the first will be last. (Matthew 20:16)