Gospel: Matthew 21: 33-46
The parable of the tenants has historically been read as an apologetic against the Judaism of its day. It is cast as a replacement theology wherein all of Judaism is replaced with the new Christian understanding, due to the corruption of the old institution and its putting Jesus to death. But all of this is false as it undercuts the core message of Jesus throughout his public ministry.
But let us suppose that the traditional rendering is accepted - that God's kingdom has been given over to the Church, the new Israel. How has its term of tenant management gone? Has it been any less abusive, any less manipulative, any less self-serving? Has it been greater in its mercy and love toward others, more servant minded? A host of historical examples old and new can be provided to suggest a less than happy result of this survey.
This parable serves as a constant reminder to any religious body on our proper position in the universe and the unchanging mission of religion to be of service to others in love and humility, to be an instrument of mercy that provides healing, liberation, and nourishment to people. The words and deeds of Jesus serve as our example to follow in our time to serve as tenants in the Lord's vineyard.
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