Tables and banquets were commonplace in Jesus’ culture. They were a place not only where people gathered but where the wisdom of teachers was imparted. For Jesus, the table had even more meaning. The table represented the kingdom banquet to which everyone was invited (including the Gentiles). So, Jesus uses the image of the banquet to impart some important truths about the kingdom. His words remind us of the attitude all who are invited to the banquet should have and of the diversity of those at the table.

The parable of the feast teaches us that God’s invitation to come to the party and enter the kingdom should take priority over everything else in our lives. Most surprising in Jesus’ parable is WHO is at the banquet. The original invitees who made excuses for their non-attendance have been replaced by individuals from a totally different social circle. It’s a profound reminder that ALL are invited to the table regardless of their background, their past, their status in society or any other categories that divide culture.

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