Podcasts about great banquet

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Best podcasts about great banquet

Latest podcast episodes about great banquet

FBC Nokomis Sermons
The Invited | Pastor Ryan Follis

FBC Nokomis Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2026 23:46


In this concluding message of the “Room at the Table” series, we revisit Jesus' parables of the Great Banquet and look ahead to the wedding feast of the Lamb in Revelation 19. The invitation of God is personal, gracious, and already paid in full through Christ. There is a seat at the table, even for you.But the sermon also reminds us that we are not only invited guests—we are servants sent to invite others. Personal evangelism is not about marketing strategies, postcards, or church events alone. It begins with relationships, love, and the joy of sharing what Christ has done.This message challenges the church to embrace its calling: to welcome the marginalized, serve the hungry, care for the hurting, and make room for others in the family of God. The banquet is coming, the invitation is still going out, and there is still room at the table.Support the showWe are growing the Kingdom of God through the lives of everyday people by reaching UP to God, IN to Grow, and OUT to GiveJoin us on Sundays at 9:30 in person and online!FBC Nokomis Youtube: www.youtube.com/@FirstBaptistChurchofNokomisFBC Nokomis Facebook: www.facebook.com/firstbaptistnokomisFBC Nokomis Sermon Podcast: https://fbcnokomissermons.buzzsprout.com/share

FBC Nokomis Sermons
The Excuses We Make | Pastor Ryan Follis

FBC Nokomis Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2026 23:24


In this message from Luke 14, we continue exploring Jesus' parable of the Great Banquet and the heart of the Host who wants His house to be full. Jesus challenges religious status, social comfort, and our tendency to make excuses—then turns our attention to the servant's role in carrying the invitation.The call is clear: the banquet is ready, there is still room, and God sends His people to invite others in—those already invited, those on the margins, and those far off. This episode is a reminder that faithfulness is not only showing up, but helping others know they are wanted, welcomed, and invited into the life-changing presence of God.Support the showWe are growing the Kingdom of God through the lives of everyday people by reaching UP to God, IN to Grow, and OUT to GiveJoin us on Sundays at 9:30 in person and online!FBC Nokomis Youtube: www.youtube.com/@FirstBaptistChurchofNokomisFBC Nokomis Facebook: www.facebook.com/firstbaptistnokomisFBC Nokomis Sermon Podcast: https://fbcnokomissermons.buzzsprout.com/share

City on a Hill: Melbourne
Does God really want me at his table? (The Great Banquet)

City on a Hill: Melbourne

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2026 44:21


Jesus describes the kingdom of God as a great banquet: a place of joy, belonging and deep satisfaction. In this sermon, we hear his invitation to stop making excuses, come to the table and make room for others, trusting that through Jesus there is a seat for people like us.Bible Reading:Luke 14:15-24Preacher:Sermon by Guy MasonFind out more at cityonahill.com.au

Storefront Church
A Christ-Centered Church

Storefront Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 49:19


Today, we begin a five-week series in Luke 14, centered on the story traditionally known as The Great Banquet. It's a chapter filled with meals, invitations, unexpected guests, uncomfortable questions, and the surprising grace of Jesus.As we move through it, we'll consider not only what Jesus teaches about community, but how we might live into that kind of community together: celebrating what we've been given, being changed by his grace, and making room for others. 

Emmanuel Reformed Church
Parable of the Great Banquet

Emmanuel Reformed Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026 40:40


Emmanuel Reformed Church
Parable of the Great Banquet

Emmanuel Reformed Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026 40:40


Walloon Lake Community Church
"An Open Invite To Closed Hearts"

Walloon Lake Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026


In Luke 14:15-24, Jesus tells the parable of the Great Banquet to reveal the remarkable reach of God's invitation and the excuses that can keep us from responding. In this message, we discover why knowing about Jesus is not the same as trusting Him, how salvation is offered freely because Christ has already paid the price, and why delaying our response can be more dangerous than we realize. Whether you feel unworthy of God's grace, assume that being around church is enough, or recognize that good things have begun taking God's rightful place in your life, this sermon will challenge you to examine your priorities and encourage you to accept the place Jesus has prepared for you at His table. #WalloonChurch #Bible #Rooted #SpritualDisciplines #HolyHabits #Evangelism #SpiritualGrowth #LoveLikeJesus

Wellspring Sermons
The Parable of the Great Banquet

Wellspring Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026 28:12


Sermons
The Great Banquet: Who is Invited?

Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2026


Matthew Dowling, preaching minister at the Plymouth Church of Christ, preached a message titled "The Great Banquet: Who is Invited?" from Luke 14:15-24.

2 Minute Disciple
Episode 449: No More Excuses: The Great Banquet | 2 Minute Disciple Ep. 245

2 Minute Disciple

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2026 10:07


Explore the urgency of God's invitation in this contemplative Christian devotional based on Luke 14:15-24. Discover why excuses—no matter how reasonable—are still choices to put something else first. In Episode 245 of the 2 Minute Disciple podcast, Jesus reveals that the banquet is ready, the invitation is urgent, and the Kingdom waits for no one. Learn how the master responds when invited guests make excuses, and how He fills His house with the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame instead. This guided meditation and daily spiritual practice will challenge you to examine your own excuses and choose the banquet over everything else. Perfect for anyone ready to abandon distractions and fully accept Jesus's invitation.

Gateway Church Podcast
The Parable of the Great Banquet

Gateway Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2026 40:12


Hope Church Sunday Podcast
Parables: The Great Banquet - Invitation & Surrender

Hope Church Sunday Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2026 45:59


In this message, Pastor Josh explores the joyful invitation to come and feast at the banquet in the kingdom of God. Our excuses reveal what we love and what we prioritize. Following Jesus requires surrendering all other pursuits and priorities. The parable of the great banquet illustrates these key themes, emphasizing the readiness and abundance of the feast, the revealing nature of our excuses, and the sacrificial cost of discipleship.TakeawaysThe Joyful Invitation: Jesus extends a joyful invitation to come and feast at the banquet in the kingdom of God, emphasizing the readiness and abundance of the feast.Excuses Reveal Loves: Our excuses reveal our priorities, loves, and what we believe we cannot live without, exposing the idols in our lives.The Cost of Following Jesus: Following Jesus will cost us everything, and the decision to follow Him requires surrendering all other priorities and pursuits.Recorded live at Hope Church in Springfield, MO.#joshThompson #parable #banquet #invitation #everyone #excuse #idols #loves #expose #priorities

Cross Community Church of the Nazarene
August 30, 2026 - Audio

Cross Community Church of the Nazarene

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2026 34:10


Kingdom Parables: The Great Banquet, Luke 14:12-24, Pastor Kyle Fellows

Calvary Orlando
2026-07-26 | Dinner With Jesus | Week 3

Calvary Orlando

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2026 46:47


What if the greatest invitation you'll ever receive is one you've been overlooking? In this powerful message, we explore Luke 14:15–24, The Parable of the Great Banquet, where Jesus reveals the heart of God's Kingdom: everyone is invited, and Jesus never stops setting the table. Even when people decline the invitation, God's grace continues to reach farther than we could ever imagine. If you've ever experienced rejection, discouragement in sharing your faith, or wondered how to invite people to Jesus, this sermon will encourage you to keep extending God's invitation with love, consistency, and hope. In this message, you'll discover: Why Jesus is always inviting people into God's Kingdom What the Parable of the Great Banquet teaches about excuses and God's grace How to remain faithful when people walk away from your invitation Why our responsibility is to invite, not control everyone's response How Communion reminds us that there is still room for everyone at Christ's table. No matter your past, your failures, or your story, Jesus' invitation is still open to you. His table has room for the brokenhearted, the doubting, and the redeemed. Scripture: Luke 14:15–24

Sermons
The Parable of the Great Banquet

Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2026


Green Bay First
Episode 535: "The Great Banquet" by Matt Miller // Luke 14:15-24

Green Bay First

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2026 44:22


"The Great Banquet" by Matt Miller.  The message was preached on August 16, 2026.  Luke 14:15-24.

First Pres Podcast
08.02.26|11am|Parables of Grace The Great Banquet: Grace that Invites Everyone,Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier

First Pres Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026 28:30


Listen - GCC
The Great Banquet

Listen - GCC

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026


Audio Only Podcast Below The Great Banquet Mark Mangrem Download

Summersville COTN Podcast
Parable of The Great Banquet

Summersville COTN Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2026 36:51


2026-05-17 - Morning Sermon - Jamie McCormack

Windsor Community Church
26.7.26 - The Great Banquet - Chase Nation

Windsor Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2026 31:30


26.7.26 - The Great Banquet - Chase Nation by Windsor Community Church

great banquet chase nation
Sunday Morning Service
Parables 4

Sunday Morning Service

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2026 32:20


Chris Leech shares about the Parable of the Great Banquet

Heritage Reformed Congregation
Come to God's Great Banquet

Heritage Reformed Congregation

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2026 48:19


RiverStone Church
The God of the Party

RiverStone Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2026 40:04


Chris Westbrook July 5, 2026 Video: The Parable of the Great Banquet by Saddleback Kids

Calvary Church Podcast
Summer of the Parables Part 7 - The Banquet

Calvary Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 40:49


In this week's episode, Pastor David Rice teaches from Luke 14:1–23, unpacking Jesus' profound and challenging invitations to the Great Banquet.Support the showFind us at! Calvary.us

New Breed Church
God's Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)

New Breed Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2026


Amarillo Campus
Insight Pt. 5

Amarillo Campus

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2026 38:26


This week, Pastor Curtis House brings the fifth message in our Insight series as he explores the Parable of the Great Banquet. Discover what Jesus reveals about God's open invitation, the danger of making excuses, and why knowing the Host changes everything.

Life Church Charlotte
The Great Banquet | Luke 14:7-24 | June 28, 2026

Life Church Charlotte

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2026 51:58


Welcome to Life Church! This week Stephen Waggoner teaches from LukeFor more news and updates or to sign up for our weekly emails, please visit our website: https://www.lifechurchclt.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifechurchclt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifechurchcltYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifechurchcharlotte1632

St Peters Orthodox Church
The Great Banquet & the Nature of God

St Peters Orthodox Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 15:01


In Luke 14, Jesus tells the Parable of the Great Banquet. In this parable we have the Nature of God behind the gift of this important banquet revealed to us. The Nature of God is to gather the broken to Himself that they might be made whole again. The Nature of God is to provide precisely what every soul needs to be raised up from the condition the fall of man left us in. As Jesus said when He instituted the Lord's Supper, "It is with fervent desire that I have longed to eat this Passover with you." In this parable we see the weight of importance God puts upon this heavenly meal. The banquet is the Eucharist. Our God avails Himself to be present among us. He invites us to come and receive life. Our response, "Lord, we come. Here we are. Heal us, redeem us, and have mercy upon us."

Get in The Word with Truth's Table
Day 167 | Jesus Tells a Parable of a Great Banquet (2026)

Get in The Word with Truth's Table

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 18:12


Today's Scripture passages are Psalm 52 | Psalm 70 | Psalm 86 | 1 Samuel 23 | Luke 14.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPWORD40 for 40% off and free shipping on any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeTo reach the IVP podcast team, please use this form.Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Tulsa Bible Church: Sermons
Parable of Great Banquet: Luke 14.15-24

Tulsa Bible Church: Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 37:42


What if the thing you're pursuing most is the very thing keeping you from true satisfaction?Near the end of his life, Johnny Cash recorded a song that reflected on success, regret, and the emptiness that can come from chasing everything the world promises. Thousands of years earlier, Jesus told a story with the exact same warning.In Luke 14, Jesus describes a great banquet prepared by a generous host. The invitation is free. Everything is ready. Yet one by one, people turn it down because they have something "more important" to do.A new purchase.A growing career.A relationship.A busy life.The shocking truth of this parable is that the greatest danger isn't always bad things, it's good things that slowly take God's place in our hearts.If you've ever achieved something you thought would make you happy, only to find yourself wanting more, this message is for you.

Eastview Students: High School
The Storyteller (Zach Calvert) - 6/14/26

Eastview Students: High School

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 29:08


This week, Zach Calvert continues our series, "The Storyteller," by exploring Jesus' Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14. Through this powerful story, Zach reminds us that everyone is invited to God's table, challenges us to consider the ways we can place God on the back-burner, and encourages us to invite others into the life-changing hope of the Gospel. Join us as we discover the open invitation Jesus extends to all.

Faithful Sermons from Ferndale, California
Blessed Is Everyone Who Eats Bread in the Kingdom of God

Faithful Sermons from Ferndale, California

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 22:56


Why do people make excuses when God invites them to receive His gifts? In this sermon on Luke 14:15–24, Pastor Tyrel Bramwell explores Jesus' parable of the Great Banquet and the tragic reality that many value earthly blessings more than the heavenly bread Christ freely gives. From farms and careers to family pressures and personal desires, our excuses often reveal deeper idols of the heart. Yet God continues to call sinners to His feast of grace, where forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life are freely given through Christ. This sermon examines the tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of God's kingdom, the danger of treating God's gifts as optional, and the overflowing mercy of the Savior who fills His banquet hall with the poor, crippled, blind, and lame—including us. Come and hear the invitation of the King who desires to bless you with His bread both now and forever.

Restoration Church
The Great Banquet | The Parables Of The Kingdom | Jason Soderstrom

Restoration Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2026 45:05


Northwest Church Orlando
A Great Banquet

Northwest Church Orlando

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 22:19


Elder Jim Sellers www.NorthwestOrlando.com

bread church
The kingdom needs you: the great banquet.

bread church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026


Luke 14:15-24; Isaiah 25:6-8 The Parable of the Great Banquet is Jesus opening the doors to everyone. After being invited to dinner by a group of Pharisees, Jesus answers their question on who's in and who's out in his new kingdom. Drawing from Isaiah's messianic banquet prophecy 700 years earlier, Jesus redeclares God's desire for everyone to be included. That means you too! By Tom Powell

Garden City Church
The Way Up is Down

Garden City Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 35:56


When Jesus tells the Parable of the Great Banquet he is sitting at a table, at a Sabbath-day banquet, hosted by a prominent Pharisee. It's in that context that he warns the Pharisees, the people who assume because of their religious performance, or because of their wealth and status, that their place in the Kingdom is certain. But in the parable, when the wealthy, influential, and powerful are invited to the king's banquet, they all turn down the invitation, busy with other endeavors. The king doesn't live their house empty, though. The king goes in search of the downcast, overlooked, sick, and poor, and invites them to come to the feast. And they do. The way to the kingdom is not marked by increasing wealth, growing possessions, or expanding influence. It's marked by an intentional and active downward descent, where we empty and humble ourselves for the sake of one another, just like Jesus did. Because in the kingdom, the way up is down.

Hope Presbyterian Church
The Great Banquet

Hope Presbyterian Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 32:57


Hope Presbyterian Church is a new church in New Braunfels, TX, seeking to take the good news of Jesus Christ to this historic and growing city. We meet every Sunday at 10 at New Braunfels Christian Academy, 995 Mission Hills Drive, New Braunfels 78130. Come join us!

Hope Presbyterian Church
The Great Banquet

Hope Presbyterian Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 32:57


Hope Presbyterian Church is a new church in New Braunfels, TX, seeking to take the good news of Jesus Christ to this historic and growing city. We meet every Sunday at 10 at New Braunfels Christian Academy, 995 Mission Hills Drive, New Braunfels 78130. Come join us!

Sterling Foursquare Church
PLOT TWIST: The Parable of the Great Banquet // Pastor Mark Hackbarth

Sterling Foursquare Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 49:43


Kenn Hucks' Podcast
What would Jesus say? 17MAY26 Luke14

Kenn Hucks' Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 31:41


In Luke 14:12-24, Jesus teaches true hospitality and humility at a Pharisee's dinner. Instead of inviting people who can repay you, invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind — you will be rewarded at the resurrection. The Parable of the Great Banquet shows many reject God's invitation with lame excuses, so the invitation goes to outsiders. Jesus warns that the originally invited (Israel) will miss the kingdom while others fill the house. Key: Serve without expecting repayment, and examine your heart for eternity.

» Crestview Church of Boulder -Weekly Podcast
Podcast: 2026-05-17: Pastor Mark Quist – The Kingdom of God is like a Great Banquet – Invitation, Preparation, Anticipation

» Crestview Church of Boulder -Weekly Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 31:11


The parables of Jesus are wonderful!  We will walk through a parable train together (12 in all...) to better understand what Jesus is saying to the world and to all of us, "The one who has ears, let 'em hear."  

Vineyard Church Maryville
The Great Banquet - Parables

Vineyard Church Maryville

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2026 32:18


We have been given an invitation to God's great banquet. Have we accepted or have we made excuses? In the same moment, we have the invitation in hand to give to others. Who are we giving those invitations to?

Weekend Sermons Podcast
The King and Counterfeit Kingdoms: Preparing for God's Great Banquet | Pastor Hayden Thomas

Weekend Sermons Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2026 55:29


Preaching Point: We must respond appropriately to God's gracious invitation to his Son's banquet, or risk being excluded from his eschatological celebration. Text: Matthew 22:1–14 (ESV) 1 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, 3 and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. 4 Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.” ' 5 But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, 6 while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. 7 The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9 Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.' 10 And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests. 11 “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. 12 And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 For many are called, but few are chosen.”

First Baptist Church of El Dorado - Sermons
Stories from Above: The Great Banquet And The Excuses We Make | Luke 14:12-24

First Baptist Church of El Dorado - Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2026 37:07 Transcription Available


A feast is set, the table is full, and the invitation is personal. Then the unthinkable happens: the people who said “yes” start backing out with excuses that sound responsible but reveal something deeper. We open Luke 14:12–24 and let Jesus challenge the way we think about God, hospitality, and what it really means to be “invited” into the Kingdom of God.We talk about why Jesus pushes against hosting that's built on payback, status, and social safety, and why gospel-centered hospitality runs toward people who cannot repay. From a story about Ronald Reagan going far beyond what a soldier expected, to a coronation invitation stamped with “all excuses put aside,” the point keeps sharpening: when the King calls, the stakes are higher than our schedules and our pride.The parable's turning line is simple and stunning: “still there is room.” We explore why the servant has to “compel” people from the highways and hedges to come in, because shame makes the broken assume the invitation can't be real. And we linger on the thief on the cross, whose only reason for belonging is this: “The man on the middle cross said I can come.”If you've ever thought you're too far gone, or if you've been living on delays and excuses, come listen. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review telling us what excuse you're ready to put down.

Sanctuary SF
Joy of the Table

Sanctuary SF

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2026 33:18


In this powerful message, Sara Davis explores the Parable of the Great Banquet, reminding us that the Kingdom of God is not a theology lecture, but the greatest party of all time. Through the lens of Luke 14, we dive into the "relentless, room-making, street-searching love" of Jesus.Sara challenges us to consider what "snacks" or "distractions" we are filling up on—possessions, productivity, or people—that ruin our appetite for the true feast. Whether you are feeling "meh," burnt out by the city's pace, or disqualified by an inner critic, there is a seat reserved for you. Discover how to swap frenzy for feasting and embrace the invitation to sit at the only table that truly satisfies.Main Text: Luke 14:15-24

The Way UK
WHY PEOPLE SAY NO TO GOD (Without Realising It) | LUKE 14

The Way UK

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 41:17


Join Zach, Zoe, and Izzy for an eye-opening exploration of the Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14, unpacking what it means to accept God's invitation, why people say no to Him without even realising it, and how we're called to extend radical generosity and hospitality to those on the margins. This episode kicks off a brand new parable series, diving into Jesus' powerful story about a master who prepares a lavish feast, sends out invitations, and watches as everyone makes excuses to avoid coming. Discover what it reveals about our own priorities, the cost of following Jesus, and the incredible truth that God's invitation is open to absolutely everyone. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Setup 01:46 What Are Parables? Understanding Jesus' Teaching Style 03:47 The Boy Who Cried Wolf: Parables in Modern Culture 05:30 Reading Luke 14:12-24: The Parable of the Great Banquet 08:39 Invite Those Who Cannot Repay You: Radical Generosity 12:24 Jesus at a Dinner Party: A Controversial Teaching 13:45 Blessed Is Everyone Who Eats in the Kingdom of God 16:07 The Master and the Invitation: God's Open Arms 16:45 The Foolish Excuses: When People Say No to God 21:38 Your Excuses Reveal Your Priorities 28:30 Go to the Streets and Country Lanes: The Second Invitation 30:29 The Gentiles and the Unexpected Guests 32:54 Everyone Is Invited: The Gospel for All Nations 35:25 We Are the Servants: Extending the Invitation 36:56 Living with Costly Generosity: Practical Application 39:18 Isaiah 25: The Feast of Rich Food and Closing Thoughts FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thewayuk/ FOLLOW US ON TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewayuk/ Want to know more? Find a church that has things happening for young people. Visit https://achurchnearyou.com/youth/ [In partnership with CofE Digital Projects]

Bogard Press Adult Study Guide
The Life of Christ: His Passion 4 - March 22, 2026: "The Great Banquet and Discipleship"

Bogard Press Adult Study Guide

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2026 16:06


Catholic Daily Reflections
Saturday after Ash Wednesday - The Great Banquet

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 6:56


Read OnlineJesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were at table with them. Luke 5:27–29Levi's life changed in an instant. He encountered the Messiah, the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and in response to Jesus' simple yet profound invitation—“Follow me”—Levi left everything behind and followed Him. This radical decision offers an inspiring witness as we begin our Lenten journeys.Christ's call is often twofold. Even those baptized as infants must eventually hear and respond to that call for themselves. There comes a moment after the age of reason when those raised in the faith must choose whether to embrace the call to follow Jesus. For those who did not encounter Christ in their youth or who might have strayed from Him, the call is ever-present, continuously offered by God. Like Levi, once that invitation is heard and internalized, it demands a response—a radical choice to follow Him. And with that choice, life is never the same.When Levi accepted Jesus' invitation, his life underwent a complete transformation. He “left everything behind.” While his career as a tax collector was financially lucrative, it likely left him spiritually empty. Tax collectors were viewed with disdain by their fellow Jews because they worked for the Roman oppressors and often took more than what was owed for their own profit. This position, though offering wealth, created a life of moral compromise, guilt, and isolation. It was into this interior emptiness that Jesus entered. Levi, touched by an intuitive grace, recognized that abandoning everything and following Christ was the answer to his deepest longings.Have you heard Christ's call in your own life? Have you abandoned everything that stands in the way of fully following Him? This question is especially significant for those who were raised in the faith. While being baptized as a child and growing up in the Church is a great gift, it does not automatically mean that we have internalized the faith or personally responded to Jesus' invitation. Have you truly heard Jesus call you? Have you left behind everything that hinders your complete “Yes” to Him?Levi's transformation didn't stop with his “Yes.” He wanted to share his newfound joy and faith with others. Levi hosted a “great banquet” for Jesus in his home, inviting a large group of tax collectors and others to meet the One who had changed his life. His encounter with Christ was so profound and life-giving that he couldn't keep it to himself—he wanted others, especially those whom he knew were also spiritually empty, to encounter the same transformative love.If you have responded to Jesus' call and given your life to Him, your heart will naturally burn with a desire to share that joy with others. As you look at your family, friends, and acquaintances, do you see the same restlessness or emptiness that once filled your heart? How might God be calling you to invite them to encounter Christ? Perhaps, like Levi, you are called to “host a banquet” in your own way, sharing the Good News with those who need it the most.Reflect today on Levi's conversion and see your own life in his story. Recognize the restlessness within your heart and listen for Jesus' call. Identify Him as the answer to your deepest desires. Say “Yes” to His invitation, abandoning everything that competes with His will, and share the treasure of your faith with others. Embracing this twofold path is one of the best ways to ensure a truly fruitful Lent. My inviting Lord, You call to me each day, yet I often fail to listen. Help me to hear Your voice more clearly this Lent and to respond with all my heart. I choose to leave behind all that stands in the way of following You, and I pray that You will use me to invite others to Your heavenly banquet. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: © José Luiz Bernardes RibeiroSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.