Theme of the Day: Our God Invites Unworthy Sinners to Participate in His Blessings
There are invitations we might be tempted to reject: an invitation to an event you are not interested in, an invitation to a party that takes place at the same time as something else you want to do. There are other invitations which people would say you’ve lost your mind to reject: an invitation to go on a free tropical vacation, an invitation to go backstage and meet your favorite musical group, an invitation to the Super Bowl. We get so many invitations. Some we accept; others we reject.
Where does God’s invitation to participate in his heavenly banquet rank? Scripture often pictures eternal life as a joyful reunion, full of friends and family, laughter, and the finest foods. Through a story Jesus teaches us how foolish it would be to reject God’s gracious invitation to that eternal celebration. More, Jesus tells us what we need to get into that best of all banquets.
Matthew 22:1-14
Isaiah 25:6-9
Romans 1:16-17
Psalm 84
638 – The Gospel Shows the Father’s Grace
573 – Jesus, Your Blood and Righteousness
963 – This Is the Feast
660 – Here, O My Lord, I See You Face to Face
568 – His Robes for Mine
Prayer of the Day: Almighty God, you invite us to trust in you for our salvation. Deal with us not in the severity of your judgment but by the greatness of your mercy; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples. Alleluia.