LENT 2016 - GOING TO JERUSALEM

Sunday, Second Sunday in Lent

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Matthew 22: 1 – 14

            This is a very different telling of the parable of the banquet than is in Luke 14: 16 – 24. In Matthew’s version, things go from bad to worse, as the king takes out his vengeful anger on the ones who spurned the king’s invitation to the wedding banquet.

This is another very uncomfortable parable, making us squirm in our seats, challenging us to take stock of our lives and discipleship. Perhaps, it should come with a warning: "This parable contains violence and adult scenes meant for a mature audience only. Some viewers may find it offensive. Discretion is advised."

            Be that as it may…

            “Look, honey; we received this fancy, gold-embossed invitation from the king. His son is getting married and we’ve been invited to the wedding banquet.”

            “Oh, no!  None of our friends will be going.”

            “The banquet is in a month.”

            “Oh, no! I haven’t got enough time to buy a new outfit.”

            “It’s at the palace.”

            “Oh, no! I suppose we’ll have to bring an expensive gift.”      

“They’re serving roast venison.”

            “Oh, no!  I am a vegan!”

            “There’ll be dancing.”

            “Oh, no! You can’t dance!”

            “We’re supposed to reply ASAP.”

            “Oh, no! Make up some excuse. They won’t miss us.”

            “It says we have to come, or else.”

            “Oh, no! Or else what? Do you think the king is going to invite some poor riff-raff right off the streets; not likely.”

            “But it’s the king.”

            “Oh, no! What is he going to do to us? Who does he think he is? We pay his taxes just so he can have that fancy palace of his and all those servants.”

             “It is such a nice invitation.”

            “Oh, no! I’m late for palates. Put it on the counter; we’ll talk about it later.”

             For many are called, but few are chosen!