March 07

March 7

Matthew 22:1-14

If Jesus was speaking truth to religious oppressors in yesterday’s
reading, today He speaks to those who would see the truth yet choose to
reject it. Specifically Jesus gears this parable to leaders who were
‘religious’ while denying the Messiah right in front of them. “The
hypocritical Jewish leaders had not only rejected their responsibilities;
they were turning their back on the privileges of their inheritance. This
parable dealt with their deliberate choice to be disinherited.” Webber,
Stuart)

Jesus brings out two common responses to His invitation: apathy and
aggression. We see the same types of responses all around us today.
Much of America acts as if Jesus is just one more thing to be ignored.
These have found it easiest to ignore Him and His Church. Others have
become aggressive, eagerly shaming the ways of Christ, pointing out all
the ways Christians have failed, missing completely Jesus invitation to
save those who are lost. Both types find it easier to deny their lostness
than face the reality of sin and its consequences.

Today’s Church is uniquely situated to model being a guest at the
greatest feast of all time as part of the Kingdom of Heaven. We, who are
walking by faith in Christ alone, have been given a seat at the table of
the King and we’re told to bring others with us, especially those left out
on the fringes. What will we do?

How do you enjoy and celebrate being welcomed into God’s family
through grace, by faith in Christ?

Whom do you know that needs to be invited to the feast? Who’s been
left out that needs to see the Gospel of the Kingdom at work through
your hands and feet?