Receiving an invitation from a king would be something not to be taken lightly. To be the recipient would probably make us feel very special or at least privileged. And so should be the feeling in view of the invitation Jesus has offered us.
Jesus said. . .
“(28) Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)
Jesus came to establish His Kingdom. He is to be recognized as “King of kings and Lord of lords.” (1 Timothy 6:15) Under His Lordship He desires for us to experience help with our burden and rest for our soul. Under the authority of what better Monarch could we live? Nevertheless, His invitation has been rejected by many. This was a picture Jesus presented in His parable of the wedding feast. (Mathew 22:1-14) Some flat out refused to come. (Matthew 22:3) Others paid no attention and went off to do their own thing. (Matthew 22:5) And yet others treated the messengers cruelly. (Matthew 22:6) Such responses to the invitation deemed those first invited to be unworthy. (Matthew 22:8)
When the preaching of Paul and Barnabas was rejected by many Jews in Antioch of Pisidia, Paul boldly stated. . .
“(46) . . .It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.” (Acts 13:46b ESV)
Though others may cast aside or think lightly of the invitation offered to humanity, what marks our response? Are we excited about the offer? Are we eager to participate in His feast? Though we do not merit being on His guest list, are we responding as worthily as we can? His big event is something we do not want to pass without having accepted the opportunity He has provided. There is no better time than now (2 Corinthians 6:2) to be sure we have wholeheartedly accepted the salvation our King came to earth to make possible. May our life continually be lived as an appropriate response to His invitation!
Have a great day ACCEPTING THE PRIVILEGE CHRIST PROVIDES!
Carl
