Last Wednesday I was invited to “Government House” in Regina to watch Jasmine Erickson, a young lady who grew up in our congregation, receive a “Saskatchewan Youth Award”.
When the organizing committee needed someone to say “grace” at the meal, they asked if Jasmine would like “her minister” to give the blessing. Graciously, she said “yes”, so I got a phone call asking if I would be available to attend the ceremony.
The evening was formal, but comfortable all at the same time. I was introduced to several political leaders and had a nice chat with the Premier and the Lieutenant Governor. The meal was delicious (If you are invited to a formal dinner at Government House, go hungry…Yum!). I was inspired and encouraged as I listened to what these young people had accomplished. It was a special night.
Now, I did not attend that banquet on my own merit. I did nothing to garner any special recognition that night. No one nominated me to receive an award for something that I had accomplished. On my own, I would never have made it past the front door.
Fortunately, though, I know Jasmine and, based on that relationship, I received an invitation. Jasmine did something special and, because I am close to her, I was able to participate in her celebration.
When rightly understood, that is a good parallel to the gospel message. Jesus has done the work. It is his sacrifice and God’s loving offer to “come home” that has opened the door for us. We are not invited to the heavenly banquet based on our merits, but on Christ’s. God kingdom is not for those who have worked their way in (as if that were even possible); rather it is for those who have a relationship with Jesus.
Revelation 19:9 says, “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the lamb [Jesus].”
Anyone can attend that heavenly celebration.
All it takes is a relationship with the one for whom the banquet is given.
When the organizing committee needed someone to say “grace” at the meal, they asked if Jasmine would like “her minister” to give the blessing. Graciously, she said “yes”, so I got a phone call asking if I would be available to attend the ceremony.
The evening was formal, but comfortable all at the same time. I was introduced to several political leaders and had a nice chat with the Premier and the Lieutenant Governor. The meal was delicious (If you are invited to a formal dinner at Government House, go hungry…Yum!). I was inspired and encouraged as I listened to what these young people had accomplished. It was a special night.
Now, I did not attend that banquet on my own merit. I did nothing to garner any special recognition that night. No one nominated me to receive an award for something that I had accomplished. On my own, I would never have made it past the front door.
Fortunately, though, I know Jasmine and, based on that relationship, I received an invitation. Jasmine did something special and, because I am close to her, I was able to participate in her celebration.
When rightly understood, that is a good parallel to the gospel message. Jesus has done the work. It is his sacrifice and God’s loving offer to “come home” that has opened the door for us. We are not invited to the heavenly banquet based on our merits, but on Christ’s. God kingdom is not for those who have worked their way in (as if that were even possible); rather it is for those who have a relationship with Jesus.
Revelation 19:9 says, “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the lamb [Jesus].”
Anyone can attend that heavenly celebration.
All it takes is a relationship with the one for whom the banquet is given.
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