The people made flimsy, weak excuses. They changed their minds. Are our minds changeable? Do we come up with flimsy excuses to avoid being friendly with a new or lonely person? Do we make weak excuses rather than address an injustice that needs attention?

Let us not change our minds about acting on behalf of God. We are God’s hands and feet and body in the world. Let us renew our dedication to God’s way. As the hymn says, “I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.”

In this parable, after the first guests make excuses, more people are invited to the banquet. This is a good example for us: include all kinds of people into our circle. Invite and include those whom it would be easy to overlook. We don’t want to forget or ignore any of God’s people. Let’s be inclusive. People on the busy streets, the side streets, the other side of the tracks, and the other side of the cafeteria shouldn’t be forgotten. It’s what the Master wants us to do!

By Gail Jackins from D365