For Thursday, July 3, 2025:
Luke 14:18a NLT: “But those invited to the banquet all began making excuses.”
Jesus told this parable of a man who threw a huge banquet for everyone he knew – friends, relatives, business acquaintances. This event was important to the man, but to his friends, apparently not so much. They began concocting excuses explaining why they couldn’t attend. “I just bought a new field and have to inspect it.” “I’m buying new oxen and have to check them out.” “I just got married! Duh!” That may be the only reasonable explanation for missing the banquet!
The disappointed man told his helper, “Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.” These are people who could really use a good meal! When they were seated, empty chairs still remained. “Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.” The man would not be denied his celebratory banquet! He concludes, “None of those I first invited will get even the smallest taste of my banquet.” The first will be last.
Jesus’ parable points to the heavenly banquet in the Kingdom of God. Believers in the church are the bride of Christ, and there will be a great wedding feast when everything comes together in God’s time. When you’re invited to that banquet, don’t be wishy-washy! Immediately is the best time to confirm your reservation!
God gives plenty of second chances, but not this time. When we see who’s hosting the event, our answer should be an instantaneous, ‘YES!’
Pastor Norton Lawellin
Jesus In the City Fellowship
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