Is it Spiritual or Mathematical
The last will be first, and the first last. Matthew 20:16.
I have read and heard these words many times throughout my life –"The last will be first and the first last.”
As a young adult I thought this was more of a mathematical question. How can you be last and yet be first? This had to be a trick question—one that I couldn’t solve. I compared that to so many events in my world. Is it possible for the last one picked for a game to win first? How can the last one chosen somehow win the prize? I always equated it to a great mathematical brain teaser.
This quote comes from the parable of the workers who were paid equally for unequal amounts of work. Those who labored longer hours were paid the same as those who labored shorter hours. Those who worked longer hours could proclaim, “IT’S NOT FAIR – I was here first!” Isn’t that how many of us would have responded? Never satisfied, wanting more for less, I too have muttered many times, “Not fair!” We are often envious of others even when we have not earned what we think we deserve in this life.
Jesus’ teachings signify a reversal of earthly values and priorities in the context of the Kingdom of God. Worldly success and social standing don’t determine one's worth in God's eyes. Jesus emphasized that spiritual qualities like humility, compassion, and faith are more important than worldly achievements. Those who prioritize serving others and putting God's will first, even if it means being overlooked in this world, will be rewarded in the next.
Is it a mathematical problem? It is certainly a spiritual problem. Think about that and what answer did you come up with? Did you come out first or last? Is He greater than or less than you? What is the sum of His teachings? There definitely is a correct answer.
Heavenly Father, we are all guilty of wanting to be first and envious of those who (we think) have it all. We need to be careful in our choices. Thank You for Your mercy and love for we all deserve condemnation. But by going to the cross on our behalf, You redeem us through faith in You. Thank You for putting humanity First above all things on this earth.