Readings
Philippians 2:5-11
Luke 14:15-24
Reflection
Aunty Mame said, “Life is a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death.” This suggests that it is our choice whether we partake and delight in the banquet on offer or hold ourselves back from what is meant to be enjoyed.
The parable indicates that Jesus was genuinely surprised to receive opposition to his message of Good News of God’s love for humanity. The angry reaction of the king to the refusal and excuses of the invited guests speak to God’s longing to share the good things he wants to offer and God’s bitter disappointment and hurt at the lack of response.
But the parable also suggests that it is this very rejection by those invited guests that leads to the open-door policy whereby all those deemed undesirable are now welcomed with open arms to the banquet table of the Lord. Perhaps we sinners should give thanks to those haughty and exclusive members of our Church for their hard-heartedness, as it is their attitude that has opened the doors of paradise to us.
Fr. Ray Sanchez CP is the leader of the Oxley community and is responsible for Parish Missions and Retreats throughout Australia and NZ.