June 2025

First or last?

B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO

“So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.” Matthew 20:16 (NLT)

In today’s world, the “first” are typically people with plenty of money, fame, possessions, and influence. This category of people, often viewed as leaders, make the headlines, and are admired by many. The “last” can be the overlooked talent, the struggling parent, the weary caregiver, or the unnoticed worker. But in God’s kingdom, everything is turned upside down, or as some may say, right side up.

At first glance, Jesus’ words in Matthew 20:16 are confusing and seem to conflict. This statement comes at the end of a parable about hired workers in a vineyard. Jesus tells the story of a landowner who hires laborers throughout the day, some early in the morning, others just before evening, and then pays them all the same wage. The workers who worked all day were not happy about receiving the same pay as the workers who started later in the day. After all, shouldn’t more work mean more reward? However, the landowner answers that he is not being unfair; he is simply generous. He gave each what was agreed upon and chose to show grace to those who started work later in the day.

This is not merely a lesson about wages or fairness. It is about the amazing grace of God. It’s a reminder that in His kingdom, value is not measured by the world’s standards. God sees the heart, not the résumé. He rewards faithfulness, not fame. The first may be last not because they were bad, but because they relied on their own merit. The last may be first because they remained faithful to God’s calling on their life.

This verse can provide comfort and encouragement to anyone who has felt left behind or overlooked. Maybe you’ve watched others succeed while you remain in the shadows. Maybe you serve without recognition or work tirelessly without applause. Jesus’ words affirm that God notices. He honors the unseen and elevates the humble. But this verse is also a challenge. It compels us to examine how we measure success and worth. Are we chasing positions, accolades, and approval? Or are we seeking the heart of Christ? After all, Jesus came not to be served but to serve. Jesus demonstrated this principle throughout His entire ministry. He showed grace to those who did not deserve it, healed the lepers, encouraged the brokenhearted, and accepted all the ridicule and mockery. Then, in His greatest act of humility, He washed the disciples’ feet and gave his life on the cross, becoming the Servant for all.

We are called to adopt the same mode of operation. Paul writes in Philippians 2:3-4, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Living this way may not put us first in the eyes of the world, but it aligns us with the priorities of our Father in Heaven. The reversal of positions that Jesus speaks of in Matthew 20 is not just a warning for the proud; it is an encouragement to live differently – a challenge to choose humility over fame, service over self, and grace over status.

Challenge: Look for opportunities to put others first. It might be as simple as letting someone go ahead of you in line, listening patiently when you would rather speak, or being respectful when others are not. Understand that, in God’s view, every act of unseen faithfulness has eternal value. Choose the path of humility and trust that God will honor our actions in His perfect time.

Published: June 1, 2025

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