Dressing for a banquet

Matthew 22 : 1 - 14

Friend, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?

Our God, the generous God whom we have met hands out invitations generously. Sad to say, there are many who refuse the invitation. In this parable, Jesus addresses the religious leaders of Israel, first and foremost. They have been given the privileged opportunity to join the banquet, but reject it with various excuses and even ill treat the servants who present the invitation. In the end, the invitation goes out to the less likely people. Those on the street corners who recognize their need and helplessness, not surprisingly accepted the invitation and join the King's banquet.

But before we take for granted our place in the banquet, we are given a warning. The guests to the King's banquet must come in garments that are appropriate, that is, 'wedding clothes'. The King will not recognize guests who come in any other attire. In fact, they will be thrown out.

It is very easy to say 'Yes' during the altar calls that are commonly extended at the end of a church service. People may come forward in hordes to receive the invitation. But I wonder how many actually understand what their decision means. I wonder how many have been truly moved by the Holy Spirit, rather than being moved by emotionalism or mental assent. The church may indeed contain people who are not true members of the kingdom.

This parable reminds me of other warnings that are issued by Jesus. Not all who call him, "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of his Father. In addition, those branches that do not bear fruit will be cut down and burned. We should not use these warnings to judge who is in and who is out. Instead these cautions should lead us to self examination that leaves the judging to God.

At one time, I was not comfortable with such passages. They caused me anxiety as I thought about my own place in the banquet. However, once as I read and reread one of the warning passages, I was given a graced insight. I began to understand God's sternness in a different light. His sternness is the reverse side of his loving kindness. His passion for and love of his people purifies and cleanses by removing the dross. He warns in order that we might turn towards him and pay attention to our wedding attire.