Table Talk: Parable of the Vineyard Workers

Through the parable of the vineyard workers, we are called to look at ourselves honestly and lovingly, just as God looks at us. It also invites us to let go of the stuff in our lives that keeps us from being joy-filled and grateful people. 

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In this parable, the workers in the vineyard were all promised the same compensation in exchange for work they did in the vineyard. Some worked longer than others, but got paid the same amount of money. The workers who arrived first thing in the morning and worked the longest complained about the workers who arrived far later and still got paid the same. 

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We are challenged to behave by God’s standards, neither demanding our rights nor begrudging others for their good fortune. 

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Table Talk Questions

1. Do you think it was fair that both groups of workers were paid the same amount of money for the day?
2. Why do you think the workers who were hired early in the morning were complaining? Do you agree with their complaints?
3. Would you have done anything differently if you had been the owner of the vineyard? What?
4. Can you relate to this story with chores or any odd jobs you have done? 

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