When

we send out an invitation, it’s natural to expect a response. One

of my most frustrating experiences in ministry is when I get no

response from someone after inviting them to an event. Even more

frustrating is getting a response that’s a lame excuse.

In

this parable the banquet-thrower invites many people to his banquet.

But when the time comes for the feast, all sorts of excuses are

given. “I have to go and check on some property I bought.” “I

have to go and test-drive my new oxen.” “I just got

married—sorry, I can’t come.” We could argue that some of these

excuses don’t sound so bad, but they are excuses nonetheless. The

response of the banquet-thrower? “Go out and invite more people! Go

to the streets and alleys, the country lanes and roads, and urge the

people to come.”

Jesus

is a banquet-thrower. He is inviting each of us to his amazing feast

in the kingdom of heaven. His invitation goes out to everyone,

everywhere! You might find yourself in the alleys or country lanes of

life, but Jesus will still seek you out with his invitation. All you

have to do is come.

Many

of us have grown used to making excuses, however. “I have something

else to do.” “I have other people to see.” Or maybe our excuses

are more personal: “I don’t feel worthy to go, because I’ve

messed up. How could Jesus possibly want me?”

Jesus

wants you. Please come.