Home > Reading > NALC Devotions – July 30, 2017

Today’s readings: 1 Samuel 14:36-45; Romans 5:1-11; Matthew 22:1-14

One part of today’s parable addresses something disturbing to many minds. After inviting people passing by on the streets to the wedding feast, the king threw out one man found not wearing wedding clothes. That sounds strange. In our experience, people do not walk the streets wearing wedding clothes. Where did these people, who were invited from the streets, suddenly find such clothing?

One explanation that seems to stand out is that in Jewish custom, the king would provide the wedding garments to his guests. This one guest then, chose not to wear the garment provided him. He wanted to be included, but in his own fashion. He accepted the invitation, but refused to comply with the stipulations of the wedding hall. Simply put, this guest wanted things his own way.

Have we ever wanted church to be the way we want, but not the way Jesus designed it? Have we ever wanted a church that only says what we want to hear, and teaches only what we want to learn? Through his death and resurrection, Christ has given to those who believe in him the garment of his righteousness. That garment is the only acceptable attire of heaven.

Prayer: Father God, help me to accept and wear the garment of Christ’s righteousness, so I may enter your house and live therein with you forever and ever. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Stéphane Kalonji, Pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in New Bern, NC.

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