Hallelujah

Beloved People of God,

In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus tells us a parable revealing the nature of the heavenly kingdom we see in Revelation. He says: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son,” (Matthew 22.2).

Can you imagine then how shocked Jesus’ disciples were as the parable unfolded? The king’s servants went out with the good news of the wedding feast but so many of the invited guests didn’t care! They declined to come. They paid no attention to the joyous news, prioritizing their own plans. What’s worse, some seized the king’s servants, treated them shamefully and killed them. Because of their violent refusal, the king sent his army to measure out justice against the violent. Once again, king sent out his servants, “The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find,” (22.8b). His invitation to the table was for everyone! Regardless of their past or their worth. Good and bad, rich and poor, all were invited to celebrate the wedding feast!

In Revelation 19, we see the eschatological truth of this revealing parable. All those who chose to build their own kingdoms, who rebel against the Lord, who opt for Babylon over the Son of God are given over to their decision. After one last invitation, the door is closed to them. But to those who will listen, these are the true words of God: “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb,” (Revelation 19.9).

Friend, we’ve been invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb! Every Sunday, we gather around the Table and, holding the symbols of Jesus’ real and mysterious presence among us, we take the break and the cup. Friend, His invitation deserves thanksgiving! The King of Glory has invited us to draw near! His invitation deserves our best. Let’s take this time we have, to do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6.8); to cloth ourselves in righteous deeds (Revelation 19.8) which bring glory to His name. Let’s get ready, the wedding feast is closer than we think (Revelation 3.11; 22.7, 20)!

For His Name’s Sake,

Brett