St. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, tells us that we have been given different gifts. These gifts should be used in the service of all with love and joy: “Are you a prophet? Then give the insights of faith. Let the deacon fulfill his office; let the teacher teach, the one who encourages, convince.” (Rom 12: 6 -7)
The Gospel reading speaks of the banquet God has prepared for all. The parable clarifies that, in order for one to participate and enjoy the eternal banquet, it was necessary to respond to God’s call inviting everyone to gather as a community and to participate in building a more loving world.
Though those who refuse to come to the banquet had good reasons, financial, family and other needs and concerns must be balanced with the greater need and urgency of our obligations to God and to our fellows, especially in the community of the Church.
How do we live out our many priorities and concerns in life? We certainly would not wish to be left out of God’s eternal banquet.
