Kyle Idleman continues Chapter 5 of The End of Me with an in-depth discussion of the Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:16-24). Pastor Idleman states it is important to understand that, in the Bible, a banquet often is a metaphor for the way God addresses the deepest needs of His people. Jesus often used the image of a feast because it was a vivid and enticing image for His listeners.
Kyle observes that the best part of Jesus’ parables is deciphering who is who. While some parables are simple and universal, others, like this parable in Luke, are pointed and specifically refer to certain people. In most parables, God usually is identified as a king or master of an estate-definitely someone in a position of power. But in this parable, Jesus is the servant. The invitees are people of God who are too busy to attend.
The first guest has purchased a field and is eager to check it out. Pastor Idleman states personal gain is the issue here. Ironically, often people who believe they own property ultimately realize their property owns them. The presumption of emptiness drives the need for consumer fulfillment. Kyle summarizes:
“We hunt and we gather, and we can’t stop for fear of what a moment of reflection might say.”
As Mother Theresa would say, that moment of reflection might reveal a need for a living relationship with God.
Today’s question: What Scriptures help you fill your emptiness with God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “A hedge against emptiness”
