September 20, 2026

 

The First And The Last

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In today’s parable of the workers in the vineyard, there is an interesting question: Why were some workers still standing around late in the day? Maybe they were the ones no one wanted to hire. Perhaps they were older, weaker, or
simply overlooked. Yet late in the afternoon, the landowner sees them and says, “You too, go into my vineyard.”

Jesus is not really giving us a lesson about wages or how to run a business. He is telling us something about God. The vineyard belongs to God, and God keeps inviting people in—from the first hour until the last. I think this speaks to us as
we continue our Sowing Seeds of Faith campaign here at Resurrection.

Over the past several months, we have been asking ourselves what kind of parish we want to become and, more importantly, what kind of parish God is calling us to become. We have listened to one another, talked about our needs
and hopes, and begun planning for the future. Yes, the campaign involves raising money, but I hope we see that it is about more than money. It is also an invitation to take our place in God’s vineyard.

Some of you have been part of this parish for decades. You have worshiped here, raised your children here, volunteered, served in ministries, and supported the parish faithfully through the years. Others are newer to our community. And
some may still be standing at the edge, wondering whether there is a place for them. There is. Jesus says, “You too, go into my vineyard.”

Each of us has something to offer. Some are able to give financially. Others can give their time. Some have talents and experience that our parish needs. Others can pray, welcome people, teach, visit the sick, serve in a ministry, or simply
become more involved. We do not all have to contribute in the same way. What matters is that we hear God’s invitation and respond.

This is also the spirit behind the visits and conversations taking place during our campaign. They are not simply about asking someone for a pledge. They give us a chance to listen, reconnect, hear what people love about our parish, and talk
about what we hope Resurrection can become in the years ahead.

This parish is God’s vineyard, entrusted to all of us for a time. Many of us are enjoying the fruits of seeds planted by people who came before us. Now it is our turn to plant something for those who will come after us. So perhaps the
question during this campaign is not simply, “How much am I being asked to give?” A better question might be, “Lord, what are You asking me to sow?” Maybe it is financial support. Maybe it is your time, your talent, your prayer, or
your willingness to become more involved. Whatever we can offer, God can use it and make it bear fruit.

As we continue our Sowing Seeds of Faith campaign, thank you for being part of our parish and for whatever way you choose to participate. I am grateful for your generosity, your prayers, and your love for Resurrection. Let us remember
that the vineyard belongs to God. The seeds are ours to sow. And the harvest will belong to generations yet to come. May God bless you and your generous hearts!