Greetings on this the Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: Isaiah 25:6-10a; Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6; Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20; Matthew 22:1-14
Summary
I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. Behold our God, to whom we looked to save us! This is the LORD for whom we looked; let us rejoice and be glad that he has saved us! My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father, glory forever and ever. Amen. (Ps 23 6:cd; Isa 25:9bcd; Phil 4:19-20).
Reflection
May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts, so that we may know what is the hope that belongs to our call (Ephesians 1:17-18).
Our readings today reflect the divine care both in this life (all the days of my life) and the life to come (he will destroy death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from every face). It is by the glorious riches in Christ Jesus we have these promises from God, the Father.
In our gospel portion, truly the Lord, enlightens the eyes of our hearts. The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son.
You are invited. All of you.
But the story is told through the movement of faithful and unfaithful persons. Those who respond to the Lord appropriately and those who do not. This is usually understood to be the unfaithfulness of some of the leadership causing such harm to the people.
Then this: how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?
Some theologians see this portion of the parable to be about Christians who know to be there at the banquet but without the faith of appropriate response. It’s not about the clothes.
It is said, in those days, some Kings had the practice of providing people invited to a King’s feast bathing, and fancy clothing as a part of the celebration preparation. So that all who come, regardless of individual wealth or inheritance, all can enjoy the banquet as equals in the eyes of the Lord. Everyone in festive garments.
The one who snuck in unprepared is the one who pretends to be faithful but is not. Who knows he may have even been dressed more splendidly than the others. But his heart was not so.
Personal Reflection
When you are invited to the Banquet do not fuss over anything. The Lord will provide. The Sacramental system instituted by Christ takes care of everything. The bathing, the dress and the change of heart. Bathing → Baptism / Confession; The Dress/Garment → The White Baptismal Garment / Grace; The Banquet → The Holy Eucharist.
Just come and be willing to accept these gifts and enjoy being in the presence of the Lord. We need to be suitable. It’s not about the suit.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101126.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry