Here is a saying from Jesus, to the host ( a leader of the Pharisees) who had invited Him on a Sabbath, to eat bread (have a meal). In all the years I've gone to church, I can not recall hearing a sermon preached from this passage of scripture. Why? Jesus says so much here and yet ministers and Christians for the most part have chosen to ignore this passage of scripture. Why? I think the answer is obvious, because it goes against all our basic cultural nature. A few old saying, "bird of a feather flock together," and "tit for tat" and "you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours," all depict human nature. Jesus knew that, but it is not to be the standard in His Kingdom. We are to be living by Christ's nature. The Kingdom of Heaven is all about agape love; compassion for the poor and needy, obedience to His word, plus sowing and reaping. Jesus was not making a suggestion, "if" but a command "when." So next time, let us really show His love; need I say more.
"When you have a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or a brother or your relatives or rich neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you in return and that would be your repayment. But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind, and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."(Luke 14:12-14)
9 years ago
