A dinner guest where Jesus was eating said:
“Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the Kingdom of God.”
Then Jesus replied:
“A person was hosting a banquet and invited many.
At dinner time, they sent their servant to tell the guests:
‘Come, because everything is ready now.’
But the guests made excuses and did not attend.”
From Luke 14
Some Ideas to Contemplate:
- In this passage, from “The Parable of the Great Banquet,” Jesus, Master Mystic, Healer, Teacher, and Wayshower, speaks to his 1st century followers, who understand the customs and chaste system of the time. Parables are stories that place ideas side by side and offer perspective. Jesus uses them so his listeners—and we—can contemplate our choices.
- The Kingdom of God (Higher Power, Supreme Divine Energy, Great Spirit, etc.) is not an actual destination, but a state of consciousness held in present time. It is our mindset when we recognize the eternal, absolute presence of God, with us and within us. It also is the experience of beholding our own soul essence and knowing how to invest our precious energy.
- Despite what some teachings say, no one is excluded from the Kingdom of God. The only exclusion is declining the invitation. In the parable, those who make excuses actually exclude themselves from what could be a glorious occasion of spiritual renewal and physical nourishment. Through their choice, they reveal their priorities.
- When we make excuses, we diminish our energy, muddle our intentions, and shirk our responsibilities. As numerous mental health professionals have shared, excuses are like rats invading a ship. If we are confused about our intentions, or unwilling to set appropriate boundaries, we rationalize the excuses and they run our lives. One of the biggest excuses we make is about not having enough time. But consider that time is not the issue. The issue is energy. So once we discern how we want to use our energy, our intentions becomes clear and our purpose stays grounded.
Practices for the Week:
- Notice ways you avoid what is calling you now.
- Reflect gently on what you notice, especially any excuses about being unworthy or undeserving.
- Illustrate, journal, and/or record how you use your precious energy (not your time) for what matters most.
You are a spiritual being with a radiant soul, living in a sacred body temple, having human experiences. Remember: Your abundance of energy is distinguished by choice, not social status or physical appearance. So when you choose to be present now, you can recognize the invitations and opportunities available. You can invest your energy accordingly, where you are, as you are, now.
© 2026 – Rev Jenn Sacks – All rights reserved.
Photo from Shutterstock by Lili Gluck.
