Matthew 21:33-43

1. The target audience of this allegorical parable are the Jewish chief priests and elders portrayed here as rejecting Jesus and his teaching, and as a consequence losing out on what God was offering them. It is a story of opportunity for life presented and rejected, and they lose out in the process. How important have you found it to recognise and accept opportunities for growth, development and new life when these were presented to you?

2. The parable is also a cautionary tale about the destructive effects of greed - doing violence to the rights of others and eventually destroying the greedy themselves. What attitude towards possessions has helped you to be at peace in yourself and at peace with others?

3. The vineyard of the Lord is an image for God's people. As we look at the vineyard we have been given we can ask ourselves ‘are we good tenants?' Recall times when you have been a good tenant, and reached out caringly for those around you.

4. ‘It was the stone rejected by the builders that became the keystone. This was the Lord's doing and it was wonderful to see'. Sometimes a person not highly regarded plays a key role in a project, and it is wonderful to see. Can you recall examples of this?