Jesus dicit

Word 188 of 310Love

Go out to the highways and hedges and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.

Luke 14:23

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A full house

Someone gave a great feast. The guests came with excuses: a field, five yoke of oxen, just married. The host grew angry and had the poor, the maimed, the lame and the blind brought in. And there was still room.

To be honest: the words compel them have been misused in church history. The church father Augustine used them, in Latin compelle intrare, to justify coercion against dissenters. But in the story it is about hospitality that doesn't want to miss anyone. Invite them urgently, so that the house is full.

Question for today

What excuse do I use for not accepting God's invitation?

Prayer

Lord, you invite everyone, especially those who stand outside. Don't let me make excuses. And make me someone who invites others. Amen.

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