Article July 28, 1923 Issue

Working in the Vineyard

CHARLES W. SWIFT

The twentieth chapter of Matthew contains what is known as the parable of the laborers. This parable is full of helpful instruction as to where and when we are to work. Let us consider the story and learn something of its lesson. The first verse indicates that the "householder" desired to draw the attention of the laborers to the fact that there was work to do. Going into the market place, he agreed with those standing there as to wages, and then directed them to the place where they might work. This action was repeated at the third, the sixth, the ninth, and the eleventh hours; and on each occasion he found others "standing idle." On the last visit,—that is, at the eleventh hour,—it is recorded, the laborers were asked, "Why stand ye here all the day idle?" And they replied, "Because no man hath hired us." Notwithstanding that these latter had not perceived there was work to do, they also were sent into the vineyard to work.

Is it not evident that this parable teaches, among other things, the limitless opportunity for work presented to each one of us; to the unemployed (according to mortal testimony), as well as to the one who feels he is fully employed? Too often the suggestion, "No man hath hired us," is accepted, and the opportunity to work is missed or neglected. There is no reason why any one should wait to be hired when there is work to be done. Perchance some one may say: I am willing to work; tell me where the vineyard is. The vineyard is the place, or consciousness, where right thinking is to be done; where the Golden Rule is practiced; where each loves his neighbor as himself. This work is the expressing of Godlike qualities and characteristics; and it proclaims the kingdom of heaven on earth.

An endless opportunity for righteous work opens up to the laborer who endeavors to enter what Mrs. Eddy calls, in "Unity of Good" (p. 12), "this vineyard of Mind-sowing." For instance, we can all help to eliminate the problem of unemployment, pressing so hard upon many willing workers at the present time, by holding thought steadfastly to the fact that there is limitless opportunity and work for all in the vineyard of the Lord, divine Truth, and by knowing that Truth is ever operative and available. Christian Science teaches that man, as God's image and likeness, is eternally at work reflecting God, and that he loves this work, and knows that he can never be deprived of it.

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