Everyone’s Invited to the Party

Read: Acts 11:1-18

When I was in grade school there was a boy named Derrick who had the best birthday parties. His dad would clean out the basement and hire a DJ, and his mom would cook tons of food. I remember when Derrick brought the invitations to school in sixth grade. We chatted about the outfits we’d wear and rehearsed our dance moves. In the midst of our excitement, I looked over at Janet who was crying. She was the only girl in our class who had not been invited. Janet had always been a little different. She was rarely included in fun events because no one could relate to her. I was sad for Janet because I knew the fun we were going to have, and I knew what she was going to miss. As Christians, we often treat those around us just like Derrick treated Janet. We leave out those who are different because we feel like we can’t relate. It’s easier to socialize with people who share the same background, interests and values. It would be uncomfortable to reach out to those who are different, so we don’t. But the Bible tells us in Romans 10:12-13 that “there is no difference between Jew and Gentile – the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”  God desires salvation for everyone and we should, too (1Timothy 2:4). The more we get to know God the more we learn about the abundant life He wants for us on Earth and the party we’re invited to in heaven. God has invited all men, women and children to join Him, so let’s take seriously our responsibility to deliver the invitations.]]>