In the Gospel of today, we are told, “Many are invited but few are chosen.” One of my favorite parts of the scripture is the wedding story that Jesus tells us today and the wedding imagery of the New Testament.

God is truly like a king who wants to fill his banquet hall with guests. The blessings he has in mind for us are symbolized by the glorious feast which Isaiah described in the first reading; “a feast of rich food and choice wines which the Lord of hosts will provide for all peoples.” It is the prophecy of eternal life where there will be no more tears and death, but a victorious celebration for eternal life. This divine invitation is extended to everyone.

The parable is not about an earthly wedding feast invitation. It’s about the kingdom of God that Jesus spoke about, of which we are to respond to it. God is the One who calls and the One who chooses. We are completely in God’s hands.

One may find a lot of excuses not to attend or participate in the Sunday Mass as in the case of those invited in today’s parable of the wedding banquet; “one to his farm and another to his business…” Which means they went about doing their own things first before doing God’s work. But the scripture reminds us to  first seek the kingdom of God, and every other things shall be added unto us.”

Today, we are called to follow Jesus. We are called to walk in the light of Christ. We are called to serve. Our words may not be enough; but our actions and good deeds are required. It is not enough to accept the invitation. One must respond and prove oneself worthy of the call. Psalm 100:2 says; “Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing.”

Whoever God Calls, he also equips, he strengthens, and he provides enough grace. He qualifies those he calls and called those he qualifies. God does not call and then abandons us to figure things out in our own strength. God will always provide the skills, ability, direction, and resources we need to carry out his work.  Let us take the first step and follow him. St. Paul tells us in the second reading that, we can do all things in Jesus who strengthens us. May God give us the grace and strength to continue to do the work he has called us to do. Amen.

God is good…all the time.

God bless you.

Fr. Daniel Ogbeifun