In this parable, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a wedding banquet. The host has prepared a sumptuous feast, great music, and maybe even cool party favors. In the same way, God has prepared a reality that is full of abundance, equity, mercy, and peace. Why would anyone decline the invitation? Maybe because it takes effort to prepare yourself for it; maybe because it’s easier to stay set in your old ways; maybe because it’s easier to conform to the world’s definition of what’s right. And then in verses 11-14, there’s the person who comes underdressed for the occasion and is promptly ejected from the party.
What do you make of these verses? Could it have something to do with a failure to recognize the importance and the value of this invitation? Could he have been wearing a “My way or the Highway” t-shirt? Or maybe he was clothed in hostility, arrogance, or a lack of concern for the well-being of others. If you received an invitation to the kingdom of heaven, what would you do to prepare? What gift would you bring? What would you hope to take home?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the invitation to the kingdom of God that comes each and every day.