“…A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, ‘Come, for all things are now ready.’” ~ Luke 14:16-17
REFERENCE:
Without being prompted to, but according to his status and royal generosity, this man prepared a great supper and invited people he considered worthy of such an assembly. Listen to the language of the invitation, “Come, for all things are now ready.” That’s power! He expected the invitees to consider themselves privileged to be the called ones in the city, but they seemed not to know the value of such an invitation. They came up with various reasons they could not answer the call – a property business to manage, a new set of machines/vehicles to test-run, and family concerns. As expected, the master was angry. Instead, he decided to extend the invitation to those less deserving – the lame, blind, and the poor; anybody they found on the streets; a man of his status would not have an empty banquet hall at his supper.
Lessons from this parable?
- People will disappoint you; always have a Plan B. Don’t let anyone hold you to ransom. Be ready to work with the available, not the able.
- Not everyone deserves you or recognizes your value. Waste no time with them.
- Don’t make light of God’s call. Nothing is as urgent or important as God’s invitation to serve.
- God always has replacements. If you do not value His privileges, you will forfeit them.
- Avail yourself as God’s servant who goes to the highways to invite men into His family.
“Come, for all things are now ready.” This is the same thing God says when He calls anyone; “All you need is taken care of; the things you are bothered about have been considered.” Your heavenly Father knows the sacrifice you have to make, your obligations and needs, and your dreams and desires; yet, He says, ‘Come, all things are now ready.’ He has a supper prepared; He has a big hall to fill; so, come. Answer now, don’t let another take your seat.
God is building His kingdom on earth today; He wants many still in the world saved. He is sending out His servants to invite men to salvation, into His family, and into His service. Do not put it till tomorrow, don’t take it lightly, don’t second your salvation and service to other things. As you hear His voice today, say, “Here I am Lord, use me or send me!”
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL TEXTS:
Matthew 6:31-33, Mark 10:29-31 & Hebrews 3:15
Prayer/Confession:
I am a Kingdom builder. I am available to the Master Builder, able and ready to serve. I answer the call to invite men unto salvation and into God’s service, for all things are now ready. This is the day the Lord has made, I will make it count for Him, in Jesus’ name.
The question ‘what have I done for God lately’ has been playing in my head and today’s devotional is confirmation that God is asking me that question.
I need to do the little bit I can to draw men to salvation and concentrate less on making so many requests.
Amen!
You can say that again.
I choose never to keep You waiting, Lord, neither would You have to replace me with another. I receive Your grace, now.
Amen 🙏🏽
Why will anyone refuse an invitation to a great supper ? I also see this parable as Jesus telling us gentiles how privileged and undeserving we are to be part of God’s kingdom. This privilege I must extend to all, especially those considered as unqualified.
Indeed, it is a great privilege to be called to be a part of God’s family.
It is the day The Lord has made; will make it count for Him.
I will make it count for Him!
Amen!
The things am running after are already provided for. Hence the Lord is saying ‘come, for all things are ready!’
O Lord, help me not to chase after what has been made available for me. Let heed the CALL and be available to serve you and fulfill my primary purpose here on earth in Jesus name! 🙏