First Reading: Ezk 36:23-28; Psalm: 51. R. v. Ezk 36:25; Gospel: Mt 22:1-14

THE DIVINE INVITATION

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

A lot of us have made several costly mistakes in life. One of them could be the pain of losing something more important or valuable to us while pursuing shadows. There are couples who have lamented losing their partners because they failed to see and discern what was more important in life. Most times the things we enjoy doing may not be needed if we are to set our priorities right. Jesus could be saying to us today: “Children, do not lose eternal life while being preoccupied with the less important things of life.”  

In the parable of today’s gospel, the king who had earlier sent an invitation to his intended guests requested their presence when the feast was ready but they all gave excuses. While some went to their farms, others went for their daily businesses. We cannot say that these men were doing something wrong for they were simply working to earn a living and to cater for themselves and their families. But where they got it wrong was that they prioritised their individual preferences above the invitation of God.

How ready are we to respond to the invitation of God when he invites us to do his will when we wish to do our will? When he invites us to give while we feel we have our needs? When he invites us to forgive when we want to seek revenge? Or when he calls us to love when we prefer to hate? It should be unheard-of for Christians to neglect the demands of the faith they profess while the outside world do better in these things. But unfortunately, this is the reality we face today. It is not really becoming a Christian that will save us but living accordingly. And the hard truth is that there are many Christ-like non Christians out there changing our world better than we do. They could be among the few that are chosen.  

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, make us docile to your daily invitation that we may be worthy to participate in the heavenly banquet. Amen.