A man owned a vineyard and needed a crew
To tend to his land — there was plenty to do.
He called out to people downtown in the square,
"Come work hard all day and I’ll pay you what’s fair."
God, you call and you send; there is work here to do.
There’s your whole world to tend; may we garden for you!
O Lord, in your vineyard may we seek to be
The workers who tend to your justice and peace.

He went back a number of times on that day;
He called to new workers and promised fair pay.
Can we but imagine those first workers’ rage
When all those who labored received the same wage?
God, the gift of your grace comes as quite a surprise.
For your mercies embrace even latecomers’ lives.
May all who have worked long and hard humbly learn:
Your grace is a gift and not something we earn.

He called the complainers and said, "This is true —
That I kept my word and I gave you your due.
I share with compassion; I’m loving and kind.
I care for all people and give what is mine!"
God you give what is yours, more than what we deserve;
May we reach out in love where you call us to serve.
May we who have witnessed your grace gladly share
Your justice and love with your world everywhere.