40 Days of Easter Devotional

40 Days of Easter - March 21, 2011

Written by: Billy Friel


Making Light of God's Invitation

Passage: Matthew 22:1-14
Focus Verse: "But they made light of it and went their ways." (Matt.22:5)

Devotional:
The experience of salvation and the Kingdom of Heaven are often described as a great meal or banquet. God wants everyone to be present. To that end, He sends multiple invitations. We see the hard-heartedness of men as they were "not willing to come" and even "made light" of God's gracious invitation. Why would anyone reject God's offer of forgiveness and eternal life?

People offer these excuses:
(1) "I don't understand the Bible" - we are helped by the Holy Spirit.
(2) "There are hypocrites in the church" - if a hypocrite stands between you and God, he's closer to God than you are!
(3) "I can't hold out" - you don't have to hold out: God will hold on to you!
(4) "I've been too bad" - no, God will forgive if you only confess.
(5) "I don't have the time" - eternity is a long time and deserves your consideration.

Don't make light of God's invitations to you. Time after time He has knocked at your heart. Now He is knocking again to see if you're willing to open the door of your heart. This could be the very first Easter you've ever had, if you will surrender your heart to Jesus.

How About You?
Have you ever really celebrated Easter? Do you know for certain that you will go to Heaven after this life?

Prayer
Dear Father,
Thank you for Your love and patience as You invite us to be with You in Your Heaven. Help each person to give serious attention to Your gracious invitations.