Welcome!
Wedding Feast with the King pointing to a guest with no wedding clothes.
 
In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a wedding banquet. The King's invitation goes out to everyone, reminding us that God's mercy is offered freely to all people. But Jesus also reminds us that accepting the invitation requires conversion. The wedding garment symbolizes the new life we receive in Christ through Baptism and live out through faith, repentance, charity, and discipleship.
 
So, this week, consider these questions. How is God inviting us closer to Him? What parts of our life still need conversion? How are we "putting on Christ" in our daily actions? Who in our life needs to hear that they are welcome at God's table?
 
God's invitation is clear: Come to the feast.
 
Heavenly Father, we thank You for inviting us to the wedding feast of Your Son. When we are distracted, call us back. When we are discouraged, strengthen our hearts. When we feel unworthy, remind us of Your mercy. Clothe us with the garment of Christ. Renew us through Your grace. Teach us to love as Jesus loves, to serve as Jesus serves, and to welcome others as You have welcomed us. May our lives be signs of Your Kingdom and may we one day rejoice forever at the heavenly banquet You have prepared for Your children. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Gospel This Week:  Matthew 22:1-14 | The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
Image: “No Wedding Clothes,” Review & Herald Publishing. Licensed through GoodSalt.com
Margin Image: Licensed through GoodSalt.com