The Invitation

May he [God] strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. —1 Thessalonians 3:13, NIV

I have been a pastor’s wife for fifty-plus years now (yes, he still preaches almost weekly, gives Bible studies, counsels, leads in memorial services, and so forth).

We are often invited to perform weddings, or at least, we are invited to them. As our culture has changed, small guest lists are more typical, and sometimes the pastor is not invited to a wedding if he is not officiating. I think of the Communion service to which Jesus had invited quite a list of men (John 13:1–30). Matthew, the hated tax collector; Peter, outspoken and confident; Thomas, who had a difficult time believing; John, teachable but also hot tempered; Simon, the warrior Zealot; and even Judas, the traitor, was there.

When I invite a group of people to my home, I try to put together those who have things in common and enjoy one another’s company.

But, consider Jesus’ disciples: They all had been arguing over who would be the greatest in Christ’s kingdom. Think of it: your guests arguing before they even arrived at your event. Should Jesus have been more selective in His invitation? As I think about God’s wedding feast (Matthew 22:1–14), I am so thankful we all are invited to attend.

Our credentials, economic status, race, sex, geographical region, and qualifications will not matter. Jesus is the One who extends grace and pardon toward us; He qualifies us. It is all Him! We just need to know the Host and choose to be there.

Our minds can barely grasp how special an occasion this will be. At the feast will be many we have known here on Earth—family, friends, and acquaintances.

There will be others we have never met, but we had some influence on their lives. Think of the missionary families you helped sponsor that you never met and the families they brought to Christ. Then there are the numerous ministries you donated to and prayed for. You may have written devotionals and other articles that have helped others in their walk with the Lord. What a reunion that will be! I am planning on being there; how about you?

Louise Howlett Driver