Philippians 2:5-11
Psalm 21(22):26-32
Luke 14:15-24
Responding to the Lord’s Invitation
Jesus’ parable of the banquet may have surprised his audience. Yes Indeed! If a great lord or king invited friends to a banquet, why might the guests decline? A celebration of this scale would take many days to prepare, and personal invitations would be sent well in advance, giving guests ample time to make arrangements. Their refusal when the time for celebrating arrived must have been deeply disappointing. They set aside the King’s invitation and prioritized their own interests. Where do our interests lie? Do we sometimes make excuses or hesitate to do God’s will?
In today’s first reading, St. Paul speaks to the Christian community in Philippi, and to us, about Christ’s humility and obedience. These virtues help us grow in our relationships with God and our neighbors. St. Martin de Porres sought to serve Jesus through love, compassion, courage, poverty, and obedience to God. May God continue to heal us of our sins and grant us healing and strength. Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
