Luke 14 Commentary
Reading this chapter feels like you are in the Book of Proverbs. It also makes us see another version of Jesus. He is a normal human being living in a normal community. He is an important member of the community and gets invites from prominent individuals.
This chapter may also redefine for us the mission field. This is a social event that the LORD Jesus converts into a pulpit. He is not requested to heal anyone but God’s agenda is always on the menu.
Pride is always second nature. The gospel guarantees it. Saints have been elevated from ashes to a place of honor, even in our communities. Obedient believers are men and women who command the respect of the community in which they live. You know it; you feel it. But how do you go about the humility ‘thing’ under these circumstances?
Take the lowest place. It is an attitude that elevates others above self. The thought is that you don’t take the lowest place as a stepping stone. Belong there; be comfortable there. But there is no harm in taking a higher place if and when it is made available for you. You don’t lift yourself; let others lift you.
Your position on the social status ladder is determined by the crowd around you. Big fishes elevate our position. Pride is still at work when we decide to invite big ‘fishes’ only. It is all about self. Sadly, more often than not, it is never about the people we invite.
“But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Who does that?
Don’t make your Christian walk transactional! You are there for what you can get out now. You only attend to those that attend or can attend to you. Make it transactional but wait for your payment at the resurrection!
Christianity is never a walk in the park! You carry your own cross! Nothing to do with the miniature and ornamental cross around your neck! We are talking about the real one on which you are going to be crucified! So much expense for nothing – not in the now and in this life. Possible rending of relations and possible loss of business, social status, income, or even pride. Scorn becomes your daily meal. You feel it.
You are hit and you are ordered to keep quiet even when you can hit back, clean and good! You teach no one a lesson. You keep taking them! Yes, them, like one or two aren’t enough!
Count the cost and know what it takes to follow Jesus. You will not carry with you a bottle of wine! You leave behind your pride. Always a tough ride! How we need help!
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