HOST: Ron House
SPONSOR: Start2Finish
When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’ ”
The occasion of this text is still the Sabbath day feast prepared by the ruler of the Pharisees that Jesus attended as an invited guest. We do not know who made the statement to Jesus, or exactly what they meant by it. However, in response to that statement, Jesus tells another parable. Those who were invited to the feast but made excuses not to attend probably represent the Jews, God’s chosen people under the old covenant, and those to whom Jesus was sent. Because of their refusal, the invitation is extended to all people of any background and walk of life. This parable is certainly applicable to our world today. God’s invitation to a place at His table in heaven has been issued. Unfortunately, many are too preoccupied with the affairs of this world and life to accept it. Much like those in the parable, they are consumed with worldly ventures and have no interest in spiritual things. Sadly, Jesus teaches that they will miss out on the wonderful things that God has prepared in heaven. But the invitation continues to be open to anyone who is willing to accept it and come to God in faith and obedience. Will you be there?
What is involved in accepting God’s invitation?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!