Heavenly Banquet

 

I grew up in New Jersey. Wedding receptions there are quite the big deal. They often involve an elaborate banquet at an elegant facility with a multi-course meal, music and dancing, and other activities. The women get their hair done and shop for a new dress beforehand. The men have it easier. They just need to get a suit, dress shirt, and shoes out of the closet. There is an air of anticipation before the event, both for the wedding and the banquet. The reception itself is a time for celebration and family reunions. I still have vivid memories of some of the receptions I went to 50 to 60 years ago.

 

Jesus compared heaven to a wedding banquet in one of His parables (Mt 22:1-14). We have all been invited to the banquet. We have accepted our invitation if we have accepted Jesus as our savior. The majesty and the celebration will be beyond what we have ever experienced or even imagined in our lifetimes. We will be reunited with family and friends who have gone before us.

 

The question is – are we getting ready for the banquet? Do we have a sense of anticipation for what is to come? Are we living in hope?  I occasionally meet someone and almost immediately I can tell that the Spirit is alive within them, that they are dressed and ready for the banquet. I want to be more like them. I think the more time we spend in God’s presence, whether in prayer, in worship, or in His word, the readier we will be. As we get to know and experience God more and more in this life, the more we will look forward to meeting Him face-to-face and spending eternity with Him in the next life.