Unwilling to Come

Read Matthew 22.

Meditate on the passage answering the following questions:
1. What does this tell me about God and the Lord Jesus Christ?
2. What lesson can I learn from this passage?
3. What particular sin does it warn me against?
4. What verse, phrase or single word can I take with me for the day?

Pray

I remember all the "chaos" that seemed to surround Cara and her mom while they were preparing for our wedding day. The invitations were sent out, RSVP's came in, and we were shocked at some who came and others who stayed away. We understood many could not come because of distance, but it was still a special day. I can't even imagine what it would have been like if those we invited refused to come. I can only imagine how devastated both Cara and I would have been. Yet, clearly there are those who will reject Christ's invitation.

From the context, we know that Jesus is talking to the Jews who would reject Him to fulfill the prophecy (the stone the builders rejected). We are joyous benefactors of this rejection of Christ. You see we are the ones that Christ now summons to His banquet. He calls us from our filth to join Him for eternity.

One thing that does stand out to me from this particular passage is that some will come in the wrong clothes. It is, no doubt, those who think they belong (i.e. said a prayer, walked an aisle, emotionally moved, performed miracles, etc.) but have never truly followed Christ. They want the party without the costume.

We must, as Paul said in Philippians, "work out your salvation in fear and trembling." Is your faith in God or a prayer? Is your faith in Christ or in a deed? Is your faith in the precious blood or in a story?

Oh God in heaven, Hear our prayers and take heed to show us where we have fallen from you. Lord, search our hearts and see if there be any unclean way in them. My heart is full of sin and disease, areas where I have trusted self or love for you, areas that keep me from seeking your face. God help me to know that you are my Savior. Keep me in your word and focused on your face.
In Jesus Name, Amen.