God's Promises

10-11-2020Weekly Reflection© J. S. Paluch Company

Our readings this week speak of God's promises and their fulfillment, all in different ways. Isaiah presents a feast set in the future and hosted by God. Here the participants witness the astonishing generosity of God. At the feast, God gives the ultimate gift, the destruction of death itself. Saint Paul, confident in the fulfillment of God's abundant promises, urges the Philippians to live in gratitude and patience. Today's Gospel, however, is more challenging for us to hear. While announcing God's generous invitation, Jesus also describes, in dramatic imagery, how people may reject the invitation. Matthew reminded the early church of the need to recognize God's summons and be prepared to participate fully in God's banquet. This complex and unsettling parable invites our reflection on the nature of God's invitation and our response.

A Stark Contrast

The parable in today's Gospel is like a political cartoon or graphic novel. It uses exaggerations and odd plot twists to convey its message. There is little attempt to be "realistic." Jesus compares the rejection of him by the chief priests and elders to an outrageous imaginary scene. To its audience, it would be deeply offensive that anyone summoned to a royal wedding banquet would violently reject the invitation. This would indicate a full revolt against the king. There parable was a blunt accusation against the religious leaders.

In comparison, the people found on the streets who go to the banquet are like those who accepted Jesus during his ministry. They are the "unimportant" people who are surprisingly receptive to him. Matthew draws a stark contrast to accuse the priests and elders and to uplift ordinary people who recognize the presence of God in Jesus.

Receiving God's Joys

The final scene introduces the unacceptably dressed banquet guest. Matthew is concerned here about the full readiness of those who accept God's invitation. A superficial assent or participation is not enough. God wants our whole selves invested here.

Jesus' followers are to be prepared for the banquet, as suggested by the wedding garment. The meaning of the garment is not clearly explained. It's helpful to recall that a wedding banquet, then and now, is a profoundly joyous event. Being dressed appropriately means being ready to celebrate. Our hearts must be ready to receive God's joy.

Indeed, it can be difficult to be receptive to joy when we have been hurt in many ways during our lives. Our pain may cause us into close up, pulling away from others and away from God. It helps to remember that our God overflows with joy and is eager to share the fullness of joy with us. In our times of suffering, God actively invites us to receive this joy, and in turn to share it with us.