Daily Reflection Tuesday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

We are visiting family in Florida and before we even left for our trip my sister-in-law, Karen, called and asked if she could have everyone over so we could all be together for Sunday dinner. She was giving us the choice since it was our vacation. How could we say no, just the thought of seeing all our family from the littlest who just turned one to the oldest who is in their 70s was something we looked forward to. It was a joy filled day. Karen and I married brothers who are part of a big Italian family. Sunday dinner is a ritual which we both quickly embraced. The meal consists of a big pot of sauce(gravy depending chef) filled with all types of wonderful goodies. Karen started cooking the day before and the house smelt amazing. Someone was always dipping bread into the sauce. There was story telling, laughter and love abound.

I had originally been preparing to write about the first reading and the gifts God gives us, but then, after my experience yesterday, I knew it was the banquet I was being called to reflect on. Using my imagination, in the Ignatian practice of putting one’s self into the gospel, I pictured Jesus joyfully inviting me to the banquet. I was to bring nothing but myself. All would be prepared and I was to enjoy. I pictured him smiling and enjoying being surrounded by those he loved beyond words. For a moment I saw a sadness and when I asked him what was wrong, he said I wonder why so many said no to my invitation. Then he said all I can do is keep inviting and maybe one day they will accept.

That is the beauty of our sweet Jesus. His door will always be open. The feast will be prepared and he will time and time again be inviting us to the Sunday banquet at Mass and then to the heavenly banquet for eternity. How will you RSVP?