The Honored Guest

John Marquette Wrote:
in-vi-tey-shuhn – the act of requesting the presence or participation of in a kindly, courteous way; an allurement, enticement, or attraction

Invitations. I get them all the time, especially for weddings. They come from friends and relatives asking me to share in their family’s special time. Is there anything more wonderful than experiencing the wedding of a man and woman; precious gift of marriage? It is such a wonderful picture and reminder of my relationship with Jesus.

At these weddings, I notice there are two types of guests. There are those like me who are invited to come as spectators and witnesses of the event. We watch, say congratulations, mingle a bit and go home. It is certainly an honor to share in that special time with my friends. However, there is a second kind of guest... the honored guests. Those who are invested participants – like the bridesmaids, groomsmen, family members and special friends. They are invested participants not only in this event, but in the lives of the bride and groom. They have the privilege of a close up view and are involved in nearly every aspect of the wedding activities. I will one day soon walk my own daughter down the aisle… I will be one of those honored guests. I can’t begin to imagine the difference between the two seats -- one as a spectator and the other as an invested participant; an honored guest.

When I read Jesus’ invitation to “come to me and drink” (John 7:37), I realize it is my choice not only to receive or decline, but my choice about which kind of guest I will be -- spectator or honored guest. I can attend the “party” as a spectator - take Him up on His offer of salvation, forgiveness of sin and promise of eternity in heaven. That motivates me beyond measure.

However, Jesus’ invitation is so for much more… He invites me to come as an honored guest. To sit at the head table, participate in the banquet and all the festivities – to be a part of the family - one with an inside view. Why would I settle for just the spectator role?

Will I accept his invitation to be an honored guest? I plan to… Draw Near for me is about accepting that invitation.

What about you? Spectator or honored guest? See you at the wedding!