Matt 22:10-14: "So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. 11 "But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 "So he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 "Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 "For many are called, but few are chosen."
This parable of the kingdom is a wonderful example of the Grace of God. Jesus tells the story of a planned wedding where many were invited. The invitation went out yet the chosen guests did not take it seriously. In fact, they treated the king’s servant wickedly and even killed him. The king was so angry that he ordered that his servants go out to the highways and invite all that would come. The king also sent his armies to those who killed his servant and destroyed them. His grace shifted from the chosen guests to anyone who would come to the wedding. He wanted many to come to the wedding and accept his invitation.
The king sent his servants into the highways and byways seeking all who would come and celebrate with him. God has prepared a wedding. This wedding is between His Son and the bride, which is all of those who will accept His invitation.. In Jewish custom one is given a robe to wear. This is a custom reflecting that these robes are of honor and of distinction. When the king came in and saw one who was not wearing the proper garment he was angry and gave orders to have that one cast out. The guest thought that his garments were good enough for the wedding; however, he was mistaken.
The story that Jesus told gave a wonderful illustration of how it is in His kingdom. All those who are given the invitation and accept the wonderful gift of God, are clothed in righteousness. That is why we are called to “put on Christ.” Galatians 3:27 However, when God’s gracious gift is rejected and we think we can get by with our own garments of “being a good person or some other types of works” we come up short. Jesus says that that person will be cast into utter darkness.
We Christ-followers have been clothed in the wedding garments of the king. However, we too are also charged with finding others to come to the wedding. We are called to go into the highways and by-ways and seek those who are lost. There is a celebration to go attend. However, the time is drawing near, so let us go out and invite.
Tomorrows Readings:
Old Testament: Exod. 31-33 New Testament Matt 22:23-46
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