R.S.V.P. Archives – Sonshine's Journal

2Chron 30 “An Invite that is Rejected.”

With great energy, Hezekiah continued his reforms for his nation. He wisely sought counsel from his officials and sought to protect Jerusalem from invaders while trusting in God to be his guide. He sought to reunite the kingdom that had been divided through the observance of the Passover and sent messengers with invitations as far north as Zebulun. But much like the people in Jesus’ parable in Luke 14, the people responded, Sorry, but I have work to do that cannot wait, etc. followed by “Please excuse me.” In addition, many mocked and ridiculed the messengers.

In the parable Jesus taught, the invited had one main reason; they were “just.too.busy” to come. Their priorities were self first and God last; they were stubborn. How like the world today when the invitation is given to accept Messiah. They offer these excuses: that is ok for you but not for me or another time, or I am doing just fine and I don’t need God; or lastly, I am “just.too.busy.”

Those that chose to come to the Passover were blessed and rejoiced in the celebration. So it was in the parable; those that came filled the Master’s house to overflowing with rejoicing!

God’s invitation is for all. How will you respond? Are you ‘just.too.busy.’ or will you answer, Yes, Lord!

As Jesus ended his earthly time with his disciples he had them prepare the Passover, his last meal with them before the cross. He emphasized that as they partook of the bread and wine that it represented his body and his blood shed for them. Although they did not totally understand the significance of this night until after the Resurrection, they quickly instituted what we know as Communion. In this way they obeyed his command to remember his death until he returns and when we may all celebrate it with him in heaven.

In Proverbs 9, Solomon used an analogy of two banquets prepared by Lady Wisdom and Dame Folly. Lady Wisdom is busy preparing a dinner for the guests, the naïve who lack understanding, sending out the dinner invitations to come and feast at her table. The invitation reads: “Blessed is everyone who will feast in the kingdom of God!” She sends her slaves to gather those invited to come. In contrast Dame Folly, who is naïve and does not know anything, sits at the door of her house calling to the passersby, come and taste of the “stolen waters which are sweet.” This reminds us of the parable Jesus taught in the NT of a king who prepared a wedding feast for his son and invited many guests. However, those who were invited offered excuses and would not come. Thus he said ‘the ones who had been invited were not worthy.” Why were they not worthy? They did not come when called.

Our King is busy preparing a sumptuous banquet for us and invites us to come. Will we offer excuses or be ready? God’s banquet leads to life eternal but Dame Folly’s only offers separation and death.

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