WHO WILL YOU INVITE?

About 5 years ago, while I working as the operations director of a local soup kitchen, a volunteer brought to my attention a YouTube video of a restaurant owner who wanted to something special for the needy of his community. For one night he converted a local soup kitchen into a 5-star dining experience. Not for a gala to host potential donors, but for the regular daily clients. I immediately knew what the volunteer’s request was going to be and the answer was yes. So, with the help of an owner of a local 5-star restaurant and his staff, Thanksgiving 2015 became a very special experience for our unsuspecting regular daily clients. Those who were often considered the outcasts of the community were treated as the most important and influential people of the community.  Greeted at the door & escorted to their seat, where volunteers were tripping over each other to humbly serve them. People who were typically invisible, became visible. Served on real plates and real classes, a 5-course meal worthy of any Thanksgiving family gathering.

Paul’s focus, in the letter to the Philippians clearly states: “Have among yourselves the same attitude as was in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 2:5) Who did “nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory, rather” (Phil 2:3) Jesus did the Father’s will in humble obedience. Emptying himself, included a human death, death on a cross. Self-interest is not a Christian value.

The parable of the great banquet complements the first reading. Discipleship models life and service for others, NOT preoccupation with one’s own needs and agendas. To decline an invitation at the last minute or be a no-show was a social gaffe. The level of preparation unmasks their lame excuses. No one would purchase sight unseen a field or a yoke of oxen, and marriages, like banquets, are planned well in advance.

The contrast between those invited to the banquet and those who attend speaks to the point. Amid the angry host and invitees who renege, those summoned to the banquet should not be overlooked as props or minor characters. Parables dovetail with thoughtful reflection between the lines. Imagine the guest’s feelings: at first being overwhelmed by the elegant setting and rich foods; the servant’s attentiveness to their needs. I’m sure there were tears of gratefulness. Imagine everyone joining in music and song as the experience unfolds. These are the moments when barriers fall and arms are opened.

As Jesus’ followers we must take up the cross of loving service. This is the important lesson emerging in today’s readings. Jesus emptied himself to save a sinful people who could never save themselves, and those who follow Jesus, must reach out to and be in service to those who can never repay them. “Not my will, my agenda, my security, but yours be done” (Lk 22:42) O Lord. This is walking in the path that Jesus modeled. God wants the kingdom filled, who will you invite to the table of plenty?