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03 The Banquet


Gospel
Luke 14:15-24
'Not one of those who were invited shall have a taste of my banquet'

One of those gathered round the table said to Jesus, ‘Happy the man who will be at the feast in the kingdom of God!’ But he said to him, ‘There was a man who gave a great banquet, and he invited a large number of people. When the time for the banquet came, he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, “Come along: everything is ready now.” But all alike started to make excuses. The first said, “I have bought a piece of land and must go and see it. Please accept my apologies.” Another said, “I have bought five yoke of oxen and am on my way to try them out. Please accept my apologies.” Yet another said, “I have just got married and so am unable to come.”
    ‘The servant returned and reported this to his master. Then the householder, in a rage, said to his servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in here the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.” “Sir” said the servant “your orders have been carried out and there is still room.” Then the master said to his servant, “Go to the open roads and the hedgerows and force people to come in to make sure my house is full; because, I tell you, not one of those who were invited shall have a taste of my banquet.”’

Reflection
This parable warns us against letting worldly distractions—possessions, work, or even relationships—overshadow God’s urgent invitation. The master’s call is radical and inclusive, reaching out to the marginalized and forgotten when the original guests prioritize their own agendas. We are reminded that the Kingdom of God is a gift that requires a response. If we are too busy making excuses, we risk missing the joy of the banquet. God’s house will be full; the question is whether we choose to be there.

 Reflection Question
What "excuses" or "yokes of oxen" in my life currently prevent me from saying a full and immediate "yes" to God’s invitation?

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your radical hospitality and for inviting me to Your table. Forgive me for the times I have prioritized my own plans over Your Kingdom. Grant me a heart that is always ready to respond to Your call, and help me to share Your invitation with those who feel unloved or excluded. Amen.

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