Chapter 14c

vs 15 – 24

A familiar passage to most Christians is the story of the banquet. We all know of Jesus’ story of a great wedding feast, to whom many were invited, yet refused; by contrast, the master sends his servants out to bring in people from all around to enjoy the feast.

It’s familiar and nice. But sometimes I wonder if it’s too familiar.

I certainly hadn’t thought too deeply about it until now.

The thing is, we often think of how stupid those people were who gave up the opportunity to be at the wedding feast. And for what?

Well, let’s have a look.

v18: Bought a piece of land.

v19: Bought a team of oxen.

These two were hung up on the things they own. Now, in reality that would seem ridiculous. But isn’t that what we do to Jesus? Repeatedly? On a daily basis? We all know that we tend to see the acquisition of goods and currency as important; it’s the reason we work, mainly. So this is certainly believable!

v20: Just got married.

Get that. This person is being dragged away from the experience of a lifetime by his marriage. Perhaps, by extension, by sex and the pleasures of the flesh. And would you dare to try and tell me that real people don’t get caught by this one? Getting sexually involved with someone who isn’t a Christian is one of the classic ways someone loses their faith (note that it’s not so much losing faith as recognizing that one has to choose either the things they believe or the way that they live!).

By contrast, though, there are all sorts of people who don’t look to be ready. They’re not religious. They’re not trained. But they have one important feature – they’re ready!

Lesson over. Message received!