Read:  Matthew 20:1-16                                                        

Reflect:   In the United States, the first Monday in September is Labor Day.  It dates back to 1894, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.  In those days work weeks were long and working conditions left much to be desired.  This was the era of the “Robber Barons” – those wealthy industrialists and captains of industry deemed by many to be not much better than thieves and scoundrels. Their business practices, including the building of various industrial monopolies, made them extremely wealthy at the expense of their employees and the general public.  In many ways, it seems we are living in our own time of “robber barons”.  The rich keep getting richer, the middle class is shrinking, and the most vulnerable among us feel more and more acutely the disparity between the “minimum wage” and the increasing cost of living. 

Jesus’ parable about the laborers in the vineyard invites us to imagine a society in which employers value their employees, honor their obligations, and are generous beyond all expectation.  It invites us to imagine a society where there is opportunity and meaningful work for all according to their abilities, and where every worker is able to earn enough that they and their families may thrive.  It invites us to let go of our entitlements and be generous with all – as God is generous with us.

Prayer:   Generous God, we thank you for the many ways you bless us each and every day.  On this Labor Day, we remember those who are unemployed or under-employed, and those who are overworked. Provide work and rest as it is needed.  We pray for employers:  let them truly appreciate the contributions of their workers and honor them with wages that allow them to thrive.  Guide boards of directors, stockholders, and shareholders toward policies and practices that strengthen and support the well-being of all people.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.