City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

¹⁵ For since their [Israel’s] rejection meant that God offered salvation to the rest of the world, their acceptance will be even more wonderful. It will be life for those who were dead!

Romans 11:15 (NLT)

²² After the servant had done this, he reported, ‘There is still room for more.’ ²³ So his master said, ‘Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full. 

Luke 14:22-23 (NLT)

Aisha’s Analysis

Today’s verses give us a glimpse into the generosity, graciousness, and love of God. They also reveal that God truly does work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). 

In the Old Testament, God made a covenant with the people of Israel by giving them the 10 commandments and setting them apart as His very own peculiar treasure. However, that covenant was conditioned on their obedience and faithfulness to God. What followed throughout the Old Testament is a rollercoaster of ups and downs and on again/off again commitment to God. As much as they may have wanted it to work, the people of Israel were not able to keep the 10 commandments. Some decided to follow their own rules and regulations and became self-righteous. Others chose to embrace a life of sin. In both scenarios, legalism and license, they rejected God. 

However, this blatant rejection of God paved the way for the entire rest of the world to come to faith in God. The old way was limited in that it was predicated on what man could do for God. The new covenant is built on far better promises (See Hebrews 9:15). It’s all about what God has done to save sinful humanity from a life without Him. And Christ did it all. We need only to believe it and receive it. Not only that, it’s available to all who place their faith in Him, not just one specific people group. 

We all need Jesus, and surprisingly He’s inviting us all to dine with Him. What a blessing! 

Application

Have you rejected God by chasing after something else or by being self-righteous apart from Him? Don’t miss out on a life of fruitfulness and a relationship with a Holy God because you’re wrapped up in something else. I can guarantee whatever it is, it’s not worth it! 

Take some time in prayer to honestly examine if you are rejecting God in any way. Take this moment to turn back to Him fully and take your seat at His table.

Prayer

Father God, thank You so much for making a way for us to be together. I don’t want to take You for granted. It cost You dearly to invite me to Your great banquet. Cheers to our new life together! In Jesus’ name, amen.