And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”’ But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests. “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.”
Matthew 22:1-14

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Chosen Bride or Unchosen Guest
By Jennifer Kane

I’ve found the love of my life, and we’re getting married.
The day is drawing near, the air is alive with promise.
The Groom is ready—
But am I?

Will I stand as the chosen bride,
Beloved, adorned, invited with joy?
Or will I stumble in,
Unnoticed, underdressed,
A guest who didn’t bother to prepare?

I don’t want to miss this.
I don’t want to fail to be recognized
At the wedding where love becomes eternal.
I don’t want to sit at the feast,
Yet be absent in spirit—
A stranger in the presence of the King.

Strip me of my selfishness.
Tear away the distractions I cling to.
Dress me in robes of surrender,
In garments of grace and devotion.
Teach me to walk as Your chosen bride,
Not as the unchosen guest
Who desires the feast
But has no heart to know the Bridegroom.

I want to see Your face, my Lord.
I want to meet Your eyes,
To feel Your love poured out
Like the wine of the wedding.

Let me come ready,
Not perfect, but prepared.
Let me come willing,
Not flawless, but faithful.

I long to belong—
Not just to attend, but to be claimed.
Not just to partake,
But to live in Your love forever.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Matthew 22:1-14

Jesus often used parables to reveal truths about God’s kingdom. In Matthew 22:1-14, He describes a king preparing a wedding feast for his son. The invitation goes out to many, but not everyone responds properly. This parable illustrates God’s gracious invitation to salvation and the responsibility of those who accept it.

The story begins with an open invitation. Guests were invited, but many refused. Some were too busy with worldly concerns, while others outright rejected the king’s kindness. In frustration, the king extended the invitation to anyone and everyone, from the streets—good and bad alike. This shows God’s generosity in calling all people to Him.

However, the parable doesn’t end there. At the wedding feast, the king notices a guest without proper attire—a wedding garment, symbolizing righteousness. This guest was cast out into outer darkness.

This sobering parable reminds us of two key truths:

1. God’s Call is Universal – His invitation is for everyone, regardless of background, status, or past sins.

2. Our Response Matters – While many hear the call, only those who embrace it with sincere faith and put on Christ’s righteousness will enter the kingdom.

Being “chosen” isn’t about favoritism but about how we respond. Are we willing to lay aside our old selves, receive the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus, and live a life that reflects His holiness?

How have you responded to God’s invitation in your life? Are there areas where you’re tempted to settle for outward appearances instead of genuine faith? What does it mean for you to “wear the wedding garment” of righteousness today?

Spend time reflecting on your spiritual “garment.” Are you clothed in the righteousness of Christ, or are you relying on your own efforts? Meditate on Galatians 3:27, which says, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ,” and commit to living out this truth.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting me to Your kingdom through Jesus Christ. Help me to respond to Your call with a heart full of faith and obedience as yoir bride and not as an unappreciative guest. Clothe me in Your righteousness and guide me to live a life that honors You. Let me never take Your invitation lightly but walk daily in gratitude for Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

January 22 2025