[06/11/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
In the midst of the busyness of life, people receive invitations to many kinds of happenings to which they find themselves regretfully declining. Though they may have a desire to attend, other things are demanding their attention and they feel they just can’t work it in. On the other hand, there are invitations which arise which — despite busy schedules — people make their attendance happen even if it means only making a quick trip of it. This is especially true when it is happenings involving family; they let it be the priority! So then, how about that which relates to the spiritual family of God?
When Jesus told the parable of the great banquet, excuse after excuse was offered as to why attendance would not be possible. (Luke 14:16-23) As this related to the kingdom of God, regrettably those who offered the excuses — as they allowed the stuff of life to get in the way — were then excluded from tasting the banquet. (Luke 14:24) How sad due to their lack of acceptance.
With today being Sunday, as I think of “glad acceptance”, I am reminded of David’s words where we read. . .
“(1) I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!”” (Psalm 122:1 ESV)
As David thought of assembling with the people of God, it made him glad. It was an invitation he eagerly and gladly accepted. It also makes me glad to know I will today be assembling with the family of God. I’m glad not simply because I get the opportunity of sharing the Scriptures with the congregation, but even more so because I will have the blessed privilege of joining with brothers and sisters in communion, prayer, and the singing of praises as we assemble for the purpose of worshipping together. In the busyness of life, I am so glad for the invitation to draw away from the world and be in the fellowship of my beloved family in Christ. May you also share in that gladness!
Have a great day GLADLY ACCEPTING THE INVITATION OF ASSEMBLING WITH THE SAINTS!
Carl
