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Jan 04, 2024 18:30pm

You’re Invited

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There was a birthday party, but I didn’t get invited. It was just for a few close friends and family. Then there was the pizza party. It was only for the top fundraisers and I was not one of them. The group that went to the movies, the lake, and the party. Again, I was not included among them.

As I got older, the situation continued as it normally does. A dinner, a wedding, a shower, a girls trip… you get the picture.

Not invited.

We all know the feeling. Whether someone was intentional or not, it stings, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, I’ve been on the other side as well where I left someone out. And I regret it.

There is nothing like realizing that I, of all people, have a seat at the table. Even as unworthy as I am.

Luke 22:21-23

“But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed! And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.”

Today’s focus isn’t on the betrayal, but on the grace of our Lord.

Look at the order in which the events took place. Yesterday, we studied about the last supper. Jesus broke bread with these men, He poured out the wine for them, all of it representing His coming sacrifice. He shared it with every one of those men at the table.

But today, we see when He makes mention of the betrayal.

After.

Jesus made mention of it after He had already dined with His friends. Even Judas.

He knew Judas. He knew what He had done. And He knew what His friend was going to do. And He still invited him to the table. He didn’t wait to have the dinner after He called out His betrayer.

He broke bread with him.

Man. That hits me deep today.

Grace. A love so pure and welcoming. Open arms to all. If they will come.

Here’s the deal. Jesus has invited all of us to the table.

Me. You. Everyone.

None of us are worthy and if you think you are, then you’re definitely not. We’ve all sinned and fallen short of Gods glory. But He gives grace to those He loves.

And my friend, He loves you.

No matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been, He loves you.

And I’m talking about an unimaginable, lavish love! One that knows no end.

He died on the cross for ALL people. He invited everyone to dine at the table with Him.

But we have to accept it. Will you?

I don’t know if you’ve ever heard this, but you cannot clean yourself up enough to come to Jesus. He invites you to come as you are. He will do the restoration. He will cleanse you from the inside out. Then and only then will it be a lasting change.

You’re invited, friend. Will you come?