MINISTER’S NOTE 15 OCTOBER 2023
All are Invited – Our invitations are often exclusive
and have deadlines for RSVP. As we ponder on the
parable of the wedding banquet, we are reminded
that God’s invitation is extended to anyone and
everyone. It is a standing-invite that lasts no matter
what we do with it. Sometimes this unending invitation
is met with rejection. Yet, its grace and nondiscrimination
are with a life-changing purpose for
everyone, flawed or not. What is needed from us is
to show up, to be present.
God’s calling to a new life in Christ does not end
with the invitation to faith. It runs deep and wide,
transforming our living, breathing, everyday walking
around existence. Those who accept the invitation
will find that along the way to the wedding banquet
of heaven, they will put on the ways of our
faithful Saviour, become authentic disciples, showing
consistency between our words and our way of
life, and having the heart of Christ to welcome all.
For all who have known the pain of isolation, stigma
and rejection, there is a marvellous hope for inclusion
as beloved guests at Christ’s table. To those
who have borne shame and disgrace, God offers
His beautiful robe with its healing folds of compassion,
forgiveness, tenderness, and grace.
Every blessing,
Vuyelwa.