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The King Banquet

Gospel
Matthew 22:1-14
Invite everyone you can to the wedding

Jesus began to speak to the chief priests and elders of the people in parables: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a feast for his son’s wedding. He sent his servants to call those who had been invited, but they would not come. Next he sent some more servants. “Tell those who have been invited” he said “that I have my banquet all prepared, my oxen and fattened cattle have been slaughtered, everything is ready. Come to the wedding.” But they were not interested: one went off to his farm, another to his business, and the rest seized his servants, maltreated them and killed them. The king was furious. He despatched his troops, destroyed those murderers and burnt their town. Then he said to his servants, “The wedding is ready; but as those who were invited proved to be unworthy, go to the crossroads in the town and invite everyone you can find to the wedding.” So these servants went out on to the roads and collected together everyone they could find, bad and good alike; and the wedding hall was filled with guests. When the king came in to look at the guests he noticed one man who was not wearing a wedding garment, and said to him, “How did you get in here, my friend, without a wedding garment?” And the man was silent. Then the king said to the attendants, “Bind him hand and foot and throw him out into the dark, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.” For many are called, but few are chosen.’

Reflection:
This parable reminds us that God’s invitation to His kingdom is extended to all, but acceptance requires more than just showing up—it requires readiness, respect, and transformation. The initial invitees, representative of those who reject God’s call, miss out because of their indifference and refusal. The king’s invitation then opens to everyone, highlighting God's immense grace and mercy. Yet, the man without the wedding garment shows that merely being present is not enough; we must also respond in a way that reflects honor and commitment.

Question for Reflection:
Am I truly ready to accept God’s invitation, not just by saying yes, but by living in a way that reflects the transformation He desires in me?

Short Prayer:
Lord, thank You for inviting me into Your kingdom. Help me to respond with an open heart and a willing spirit. Clothe me in Your righteousness so that I may honor Your invitation fully and be counted among those chosen to rejoice in Your presence. Amen.

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