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Wednesday, December 17, 2014

 “My friend, I am not cheating you.  Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage?  Take what is yours and go.   What if I wish to give the last ones hired the same as you.  Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? “(Matt 20: 14-15)

Human ideas of justice and God’s idea of mercy and charity clash in the vineyard meeting (workplace) of the landowner (Christ) and wage earners (man). In the parable monetary payment is not based on labor union agreements for all workers. Jesus’ love, mercy, and reward gives man much more than he promises, and this he gives freely.
 
Human criteria say-”It’s not fair. You have no right.”  When unexpected favor comes to another, man asks-“Why not me?”  Divisiveness, envy, jealousy enter the work place.  The devil has infected hearts.  The reasoning of the world, man knows too well.  Christ’s process of love justice, mercy is a real alternative. Christ offers man an example whereby man’s actions can change the workplace into a community.

Jesus recognizes business is a noble vocation if employers and employees are engaged with love and attitudes that unlock the full potential of everyone.  All perform tasks with zeal and goodwill, giving just wages for appropriate performance.  The workplace offers a safe, respectful work environment; love transforms the workplace into a community. It is immensely practical; love and respect are ultimately attractive.  No longer will productivity charts and attrition rates dominate meetings.   Instead decisions will be guided by the Holy Spirit.  Equality and generosity is able to permeate the heart.  In the vineyard of hope and love, no matter how tiring the work, no matter how hot and humid the physical surroundings, man can thrive and give glory to God throughout the work day.

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