The Kingdom of Heaven Is... Forgiveness?

“For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard. [Matthew 20.1]

This begins what is known as the Parable of the Vineyard Workers as told by Jesus.

What if we read this parable with the understanding that the "Kingdom of Heaven" is forgiveness?

It makes more sense to me because I believe every Christian has, at some point or another, at least considered the fact that they have served God for a given length of time while others only serve God for a short length of time (like death-bed converts). The thought could present itself that it hardly seems fair that one should serve God all their life while another serves Him only hours (or even minutes or seconds).

This parable highlights a couple of real problems with Christianity. First,

He agreed to pay the normal daily wage and sent them out to work. [Matthew 20.2]

Each and every hire knew exactly what they were signing up for but they failed to understand the nature of owner of the vineyard and the "gift" of employment they were given. The Gift of God (forgiveness), the Kingdom of Heaven, is without measure. To define it clearly, it is the same to everyone. And, because the Kingdom (forgiveness) is without measure, it applies just the same to the lifelong follower of Christ as it does to the person who confesses Him moments before they pass from this life.

Secondly, "fair" has nothing to do with it. In fact, if a person has enjoyed the forgiveness of God all his or her life, why not wish it upon anyone at any time (if they truly understand the gift of forgiveness)? Forgiveness is a limitless benefit to be enjoyed, but it is most importantly a benefit to be shared. To resent a short-term believer is to not understand forgiveness at all.

But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. [Matthew 6.15]

We'd best get to understanding the Kingdom and forgiveness!

Father, thank You for speaking to me concerning this parable today. I want to share in Your joy for every person who comes into Your forgiveness no matter the time...