The famous dreamer of the Hebrew Scriptures’ book of Genesis, Joseph, is sold into slavery today, by his brothers. We know that Joseph goes on to be far-sighted, storing grain so the whole county and more can survive a drought. Meaning that those who did not work for grain, are given it. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the landowner who had tenets to harvest his grapes. They did not want to work for the owner but wanted to keep the grapes. Eventually the owner gave the land to others who had not worked it but got the harvest. How often have I gotten something I did not work for? I’ve never won the lottery (I don’t buy tickets so I never will). But if I did, that is money I did not work for. Would I keep it all? Would I feel an obligation to share with others who have no claim on that money (other than maybe buying a ticket, thus adding to the pot)? A more precious gift I did nothing to earn is Jesus. I could never merit the love and forgiveness I’ve been given. Do I share that good news with others? I will never win the lottery, but I’ve been given gifts of incalculable worth. I must share them with how I live my life. Give the gift of love today to someone.
