Don’t forget to RSVP

I felt terrible. I have a friend getting married soon and I couldn't remember if I had RSVP'd. I talk with him about how the plans are coming together on a weekly basis. Susan and I were looking forward to attending, and I'm sure.... I think.... that I said "we'll be there". Honestly, I was humbled and even surprised to have been invited in the first place. But the RSVP, I just never got around to it.

Jesus tells the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son. Being a king, this would be an epic event. Several days long, mounds of the best foods, the most delicious wines and music playing until the dreaded HOA letter arrived. He invited all of the important people, the ones he thought would honor his son, his family, friends, etc. but when all was ready, the barbecue hot and the bottles uncorked, nobody came. Nobody RSVP'd. Everyone was too busy, had better things to do, forgot about it or was so distracted they didn't even see the invite.

Jesus says, this is what the Kingdom of Heaven is like. It's not the ones who appear worthy that'll be there, it's the ones who RSVP.

"'The wedding feast is ready, and the guests I invited aren't worthy of the honor. Now go out to the street corners and invite everyone you see.'" (Matthew 22: 8-9) 

I heard it said that the only paperwork you need in heaven is not your resume or your birth certificate, but your RSVP.

It doesn't matter what you've done, how impressive your accomplishments or bank account might be. Neither does where you were born and raised. Only that you paid attention to the invitation and responded with a yes, I'll be there.

This statement struck me not because it solved a difficult riddle, but because I know it to be true. And like the wedding I forgot to RSVP to, and did just in time, I fear that along with so many others, I sometimes miss the RSVP because I'm too focused on my resume.

The wedding feast is going to be epic. You're invited. Don't miss your chance to be there. Let Him know you are coming.