The lectionary, a three-year cycle of biblical readings, often provides congregations with rich narratives from Scripture that provoke introspection and dialogue. This Sunday, we dive into the Gospel of Matthew, specifically Matthew 21:33–46, to explore the Parable of the Tenants. This is particularly poignant as we also commemorate Access Sunday in the United Church of Christ (UCC). This day, dedicated to celebrating the inclusion of people with disabilities, invites us to probe deeper into the themes of justice, rejection, and redemption found in this passage.
The Parable: A Brief Overview
The Parable of the Tenants is an allegorical narrative where a landowner, representing God, rents out his vineyard to some tenants. When the time comes for the harvest, he sends servants (representative of the prophets) to collect his fruit. Yet, these servants are beaten, killed, and stoned by the tenants. Eventually, the landowner sends his son (symbolizing Jesus), thinking they would respect him. Tragically, the tenants plot to kill the son, hoping to claim the inheritance. After relaying the story, Jesus poses a question to his listeners about the fate of these tenants and uses Psalm 118:22-23 to unveil himself as the cornerstone that the builders rejected.
The Intersection of the Parable and Access Sunday
The Parable underscores themes of rejection and divine justice, themes that resonate profoundly on Access Sunday. Here’s why:
The Rejected and Marginalized: In society, people with disabilities often find themselves on the fringes, facing societal barriers both subtle and overt. Their experiences resonate with the rejection of the prophets and the son in the parable. Yet, as with the son who becomes the cornerstone, Access Sunday reinforces the inherent value and indispensability of every individual, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.
Justice and Retribution: The tenants in the parable face consequences for their actions, just as society is called to account for its treatment of marginalized groups. Access Sunday serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive community where every member is honored, respected, and given equal opportunity to thrive.
The Role of the Church: Just as the vineyard is symbolic of the Kingdom of God, the church is tasked with being a haven for all. This parable challenges churches, especially within the UCC, to introspect: Are we truly inclusive, or are we, even unintentionally, being like the tenants, turning away those whom God sends to us?
Concluding Thoughts
The Parable of the Tenants in Matthew 21, when juxtaposed with the celebration of Access Sunday, offers a compelling lens through which we can evaluate our commitment to justice, inclusivity, and love. While the parable is a cautionary tale of rejection and consequence, Access Sunday is a hopeful reminder of the world we can build when we embrace all members of the body of Christ.
As we reflect on this Gospel reading, let us be inspired to forge a path where every individual, regardless of ability, feels valued and included. For in doing so, we mirror the kingdom of God, where every stone, even those previously rejected, finds its rightful place in the edifice of divine love.
