Xanthe Hancox

Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for everything is now ready.” ‘But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.”  Luke 14:16-18

Jesus talked about parties almost as often as he attended them. He once told a story about a man who prepared a great banquet to which many guests were invited. The invitations went out in advance, and firm commitments were made. Silverware was polished, tables were laid, and elaborate dishes prepared. The servants went out with the final announcement: “Come, for everything is now ready.”

But in a rude affront to the host at the very last moment, all the guests made excuses.

And so, the host filled his banquet hall with people who never received such invitations, people who were excluded from social functions because of their disadvantage or disability. Once the guests sat down, some tables still had room. The master of the banquet told his servants to find absolutely anyone they could to fill every seat. Then the great feast would begin.

God invites us to participate in his kingdom, pictured here as a banquet feast. His kingdom offers us the greatest gifts: full and eternal life.

But we must not imagine this great feast is like a take-out meal from a fast-food restaurant, something we might enjoy briefly while busying ourselves with other things.

Following Jesus calls for loyalty and wholehearted devotion to him. Those who wish to enjoy it must come.

What are you doing with Jesus’ invitation?

Prayer: Father, search our hearts, remove our excuses, and enable us to accept your offer of salvation through Jesus today. We pray in his name. Amen