“But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” – Matthew 22:11-14
Our Gospel lesson for today focuses on a lavish banquet given by a King; but those subjects who are first invited refuse attend! Even when one guest does agree to attend, his dress evidently isn’t up to the proper dress code. We too are called to this radical banquet called the Kingdom of God and it requires more than just a positive response to the invitation. Showing up isn’t enough, but we need to clothe ourselves in Christ, become active participants in this kingdom, not just spectators sitting at a banquet table waiting to be served!
Preaching Question
Is conformity always bad?
Sunday Music
Thy Hymn of the Day at traditional service is The Trumpets Sound, The Angels Sing (ELW 531).This peppy tune reminds us that the high, heavenly banquet filled with good foods is a joyous celebration of life and rebirth. Not only are our physical hungers met, the hungry heart is satisfied, the poor are offered paradise, and all heaven and earth applaud the amazing goodness of the Lord.
As a nod to the Always Being Made New Campaign: Lutheran Camping Corporation, worship at New Day features camp songs you may hear at one of our Lutheran camps. One of the worship songs at New Day is One Name. Lyrics from this song include the line, “God’s going to move this place, God’s going to turn the world upside down” which really speak to the message of discipleship. When it comes to the way God moves in your life, expect the unexpected!
For Home Devotions:
Are you usually one who follows the crowd?
Is it more important that people see you in church or if people see church (Jesus) in you?
What does it mean to be clothed in Christ and what does that require of you as a disciple?
