City Life Starter

Written by Stefan Johnsson

The Word

¹⁶ Then He said to him, “A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, ¹⁷ and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, ‘Come, for all things are now ready.’ ¹⁸ But they all with one accord began to make excuses.

Luke 14:16-18 (NKJV)

Reflection

The Israelites were privileged. They, amongst all other nations, were chosen by God to be His royal priesthood; God’s nation on earth. Through them, everyone else would know who God is and His glory. Of course they failed at holding the standard set by God time and again. After God brought the people back from Babylon, they put all their efforts into keeping the Mosaic laws and began adding new laws in order to define the ‘gray areas.’ They became so focused on trying to be righteous in front of the law that the humble heart to love God and their neighbors fell to the wayside.

Keeping the law with outside appearances and gaining status in the community were the things that mattered to the Israelites. They loved getting acknowledgement in man rather than in God. So when Jesus came and invited them all to the a great banquet (metaphorically speaking), they did not take this with celebration, but believed that they were “too good” and made excuses. They were conceited and entitled.

Jesus said, fine, I’ll bring in those who want to be at my banquet. He came to the Israelites first to invite them in (Mark 7:24-30) and then when they rejected Him, he sent out His message to all the Gentiles (non-Jews) far and wide. This invitation to join Jesus’ great banquet is for everyone. It’s the good news we share with others.

Application

When I was younger, I found it hard to make and keep friends due to my weird personality (yes, i’m still weird as many would argue). Even when i tried to invite others over, there was always some sort of excuse and they found a reason not to come. After awhile, I stopped trying. Instead, I noticed that those who did show up or come over were mostly outsiders themselves. This ultimately began my connection with international students and immigrants. They cared because they wanted community and to feel accepted. This is why the parable of the Great Banquet means so much to me. God showed me what it means to go out and invite the poor and outcasts.

What are you doing to bring people into the kingdom of God? Are you inviting others to the Great Banquet? Or, maybe you are the one who is making excuses yourself. Look to make some changes today in how you approach your church community and also those who may be on the outside looking in.

Prayer

Father, thank You so much for inviting me to Your great banquet. You gave me a spot at the table and blessed me beyond anything I could ask for. Help me to spread the good news of Your banquet to others around so they may join this amazing feast that will be in heaven. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.