Luke 14, Part 2

Scripture: Luke 14:15-24

Observation: The people at the Pharisee's house are feeling uncomfortable with Jesus' parables and warnings. One calls out, "Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!" (v.15). This should help them all feel better. Instead, Jesus issues another warning, via yet another parable. In this parable, a feast in given, and the servant is sent out to advise those invited that the meal is ready. In Jewish culture, these would have previously RSVP'd their intention to attend. Yet they begin to make excuses and last minute refusals, which show where their priorities are. Upon hearing the refusals, the master decides to have the feast anyway, and invites the lame, poor, blind and crippled. They come, but still seats are available. The invitation is then extended to those outside the city.

Application: Many who were in line to receive the blessing of the Messiah from the nation of Israel failed to receive the blessing because they let other things get in the way (other priorities). Because of this they did not share in the banquet. What's important here is that nothing delayed the coming of God's kingdom; those that chose not to attend were replaced. If we do not respond to Jesus, someone else will take our place at the Great Banquet.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I most definitely want to be at that banquet! Please prepare me to attend. Dress me with righteousness, and humility, and love. Help me to invite others, for seats are still available. Let nothing stop me from attending Your feast. In Christ Jesus, Amen.