Invitation

INVITATION

1st of 3 devotions in RSVP series

Luke 14:15

“When one of those at the table with Him heard this [Jesus’ instructions that when you give a banquet, don’t invite your friends, but invite the poor, the lame, the blind], he said to Jesus, ‘Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.’”

Wherever a group of people are gathered, there will always be someone who tries to impress the person of honor. A birthday party is given to celebrate someone’s birthday. We bring gifts, play games, and have fun trying to make that person feel special. All eyes are on the birthday honoree.

This RSVP series invites readers to “eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” RSVP is a French request, repondez s’il vous plait, that means, “Please respond.” In the English language, it’s understood as, “Returned Signed Very Promptly.” The reply tells the host how many will or will not show up. Hosts need a head count, or the number of people attending an event. Enough seats and enough food label parties, “successful.” How embarrassing if the host runs out of food for guests who come for dinner!

But the kingdom of God has no such restrictions.

One Sabbath, Jesus was invited to dinner at a prominent Pharisee’s house. The guests were teachers of the law, and they watched Jesus carefully. Asking Jesus questions, they hoped to trip Him up—so to find fault in Him. They were jealous of this Nazarene carpenter! The one who said the opening Scripture hoped that Jesus would agree with him. After all, he quoted Isaiah 25:6. But in response, Jesus told a parable:

“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.’” A parable is a story with a moral. Jesus’ parables showed situations that everyday people could understand. His way of storytelling is proven to stay with people longer than simply preaching to them. How many get Jesus’ point?

Of course, my readers realize that Jesus invites all people to “eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” Everyone there is a saved child of God.

Take Home Nugget

Jesus’ invitation remains open to everyone who’s alive. After death, your RSVP is revoked. And it’s too late to change your mind. You could miss the best feast of all time. All God’s kids will be there. Won’t you reserve your seat today? Check out the lesson, below, to find the many ways Jesus extends this invitation.

Come to My feast!
All God’s kids will be there, from the greatest to the least!

J.D. Griffith

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