Not yet the steward God calls me to be - April 8

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 55; PM Psalm 74; Lam. 2:1-9; 2 Cor. 1:23-2:11; Mark 12:1-11

The imagery of Jesus’ parable hits me hard today: a substantial investment in the vineyard yielded continued loss and disappointment in those who were the stewards. The landowner did more than simply hand over a raw plot of land to the tenants. He planted the young vines, fortified it with a wall, dug deep into the rocky ground to create the space to make wine, and built a tower for the tenants to observe the work and the fruits of their labors.

The landowner provided everything the tenants would need to succeed. And succeed, they did…but they were unwilling to share the proceeds. They did not hold up their end of the bargain as stewards. They repelled each attempt to collect the landowner’s share of the profits, and it all ended in abuse and murder. They were blind to the limitless source of gifts, and instead felt threatened that there was not enough.  

As we revisit the path Jesus took from glory to humility, we see our own frailty in the destructive choices we make. We act out of fear and insecurity when under duress. With God’s help, the Holy Week readings guide us away from actions of greed and avarice, so that we may understand our role as stewards in the fullness of God’s vineyard.

— Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • What barriers is God tearing down in you? Where are you being fortified for God’s glory?

  • The vineyard owner gives his wayward tenants many chances. Where is your limit?

Daily Challenge

  • Paul’s letter to the Corinthians talks about the contagious nature of God’s grace and love, and that forgiveness spreads. Find a way to “spread” forgiveness today.

Katherine Harper