Scripture Reading: Luke 14:18–20
“But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it.’ Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.’ Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’”
Devotional Reflection
In this parable, Jesus reveals how easily people turn down God’s invitation because of distractions. Each guest had been invited to a great feast—a symbol of salvation and fellowship with God—but they let ordinary concerns stand in the way. Their excuses sound reasonable, yet they reveal misplaced priorities.
The field, oxen, and marriage represent the pursuits of wealth, work, and relationships—none of which are wrong, but when they take the place of God, they become obstacles. The tragedy here is not ignorance of the invitation but indifference to it. God’s grace is freely offered, but many decline it because their hearts are too occupied with the world.
Through this story, Jesus reminds us that divine opportunities can be missed when we treat God’s call as less urgent than our daily affairs.
Life Application
What excuses are keeping you from fully responding to God?
Is it your career, comfort, or the need to please others? God’s invitation still stands, but it requires undivided attention and willingness to follow. Prioritize His call above all else. Make room for God in your plans and He will direct your path toward lasting fulfillment.
Today, lay aside every excuse and accept His invitation to deeper fellowship, service, and purpose.
Prayer
Father, forgive me for the times I’ve made excuses instead of obeying You. Help me recognize what truly matters and respond wholeheartedly to Your call. Give me grace to put You first in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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