“When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God” (Luke 14:15).
Every month, we read the words of our Lord spoken at His last supper here on earth. Each time we read, “I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29).
Thus we are reminded of a day when there will be a Supper – a banquet – when Jesus will sit at the table with His people (Revelation 19:9).
God’s great banquet…the Messianic feast – the wedding supper of the Lamb.
Not a new idea (Isaiah 25:6).
Reading this prophecy, we are offered a marvelous vision of “all the people”- Gentiles and Jews – together at God’s messianic feast, celebrating the overthrow of evil and the joy of eternity with God.
God has prepared a feast for the whole world, not just to the people of Israel. That time will be marked by the absence of death, sin and tears forever.
During His earthly ministry, Jesus brings into focus God’s plan to host a great banquet for His Son, using parables, “A certain man gave a great supper…”
Unfortunately, Jesus’s parable/story points to a tragic development.
The “initial” invitees have received the invitations but they failed to honour the host with their presence…The result? They missed a great opportunity.
The host sent his servant to bring in all sorts of people: whoever accepted the invitation to come to the great banquet.
For Jesus’ listeners the implications were unfortunate. The Jewish nation got their priorities wrong and rejected God’s messenger and call.
God’s kingdom was opening for all people. Now everybody receives an invitation. The chosen people have missed their opportunity.
The wedding supper of the Lamb will be attended by people from all nations.
Indeed, blessed is the man/woman who will eat at the feast of the kingdom of God. Have you accepted God’s invitation?
Pastor Alois