Saint Gregory the Great comments on Matthew 20:15 from today's Readings:
“The householder said to them, “I wish to give to this last one as I give even to you.” And since the obtaining of his kingdom comes from his good will, he properly adds, “Or am I not allowed to do what I wish?” It is always foolish to question the goodness of God. There might have been reason for loud complaint if he did not give what he owed but not if he gives what he does not owe. And so he adds, “Or is your eye evil because I am good?” But no one should boast of his work or of his time, when after saying this Truth cries out: “So the last will be first and the first last.” We know what good things we have done and how many they are; we do not know with what exactitude our judge on high will investigate them. Indeed, we must all rejoice exceedingly to be even the last in the kingdom of God.” (Forty Gospel Homilies)
Today is also the memorial of Pope Saint Pius X. An excerpt from his writings appears in today's Liturgy of the Hours, Office of Readings.
Collect
O God,
Who to safeguard the Catholic faith and
to restore all things in Christ,
filled Pope Saint Pius the Tenth with
heavenly wisdom and apostolic fortitude,
graciously grant that,
following his teaching and example,
we may gain an eternal prize.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Who to safeguard the Catholic faith and
to restore all things in Christ,
filled Pope Saint Pius the Tenth with
heavenly wisdom and apostolic fortitude,
graciously grant that,
following his teaching and example,
we may gain an eternal prize.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
