August 19, 2026 // Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time // Optional Memorial of Saint John Eudes, priest

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Matthew 20:1-16

Reflect on the Word // 

I opened up my mailbox and excitedly pulled out the envelope addressed to me. My joy deflated a little as I realized it was a wedding invitation from my friend who was getting married to the guy I secretly had a crush on. I was happy for her and knew they made a great couple, but I was sad for me. I couldn’t help but wonder what was wrong with me. Why was I left on the sidelines and not a chosen one? Eventually, I found the man who would choose me, and I thanked God for His abundant blessings. 

In today’s Gospel passage, we read about the laborers who worked in the vineyard for different lengths of time. In the past, I automatically sympathized with the day laborer and his perceived injustice for receiving the same wages as those who worked very little in comparison. But today, my heart related to the evening laborers who experienced Jesus’ words, “The last will be first, and the first will be last” (Matthew 20:16). 

I pictured the unemployed laborers loitering in the marketplace and others standing around waiting to be hired, hope draining as the daylight diminished. Were they worried because they really needed the pay? Did they question why they weren’t chosen as a laborer? When they finally heard the call to go work in the vineyard, they must have been relieved that they’d at least have a little pay to bring home. Imagine their surprise upon receiving a full day's wages. Gratitude must have filled their hearts at the landowner’s generosity.

How often have we felt like others have been chosen, while we’re left on the sidelines? When in reality, we each have our own unique mission that only we can do. Or how often has God been generous with us, not giving us what we deserve, but abundantly blessing us with His love and mercy? Let’s turn our hearts to Him in gratitude for the blessings we take for granted and, without comparing ourselves to others, go where He leads us with humility and courage. 

Relate to the Lord // Ponder your chosenness. How have you been especially loved, chosen, and blessed by God?