Read Matthew 22:1–8. How does this part of the parable fit in with what we saw in the preceding chapter? What same theme appears?

This parable illustrates the condition that Israel was in at that time. God had done everything that He could do to insure their success but they refused His help. The previous chapter shows how they rejected what God was continually offering them. We see the theme of God’s kingdom being repeated, and we also so the theme of servants and masters, and kings. Jesus in telling these parables  to explain the story of Israel; how God called yet they continued to refuse his call. Jesus’ then uses the familiar imagery of a wedding feast to make things clear for the hearers.

Of the reasons given above for those who rejected the invitation, which one do you find the most difficult to deal with in your own life? What promises can you claim that will enable you to resist it?

For me I can be a very ambitious person sometimes, and I know that this ambition has the potential to turn into selfish ambition. I have to pray that my ambition does not turn me away from Christ, but drives my toward Christ.

Prayer:  Father help us to be ready when you come again for us. Help us to get our priorities straight so that we will not refuse you when you come to us. Thank you Father, in Jesus name amen.