Eyes Wide Open: 41-Day Lenten Devotional Sample

The Greatest Invitation

“When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.’” - Luke 22:14

Instead of an organized religion with buildings, programs, smoke machines, and fundraisers, Jesus simply gave us a meal. 

Eating is one of the most fundamental human practices. And eating together makes us family. 

My wife and I have eight children. Our family meals tend to be chaotic; food often flies, liquids spill, stains abound. Still, like Jesus, I find myself “eagerly desiring” family meals. Because I desire my family, I desire their hearts. 

One of Jesus’ greatest gifts to us is a meal. Christians throughout history have referred to this meal by various names: “eucharist”, “communion”, “the Lord’s table”, etc. It is a meal of healing, a meal of joy. 

At Jesus’ table there are no higher or lower chairs. Everyone is invited, all are welcomed. Jesus’ table is a powerful equalizer. He is the host. He is the meal; the bread and the wine are he. 

He is also the one who washes our soiled feet and sin-stained hearts as we take our place at his table. 

There is no pressure. Those who come to Jesus’ table may take their time, eating, listening. It is just friends eating together. “Come and see,” said Jesus to Peter, when he asked to know more. There are no other requirements… but to come. 

In the final chapter of the Bible we find God speaking his timeless invitation through the lips of the church. It’s the divine summons to the greatest banquet ever, the wedding supper of the Lamb. Delivering this open invitation is the church’s greatest mission: “Come,” says the church, “let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’” 

The banquet is set. Dinner is ready. But who will pass out the invitations?

Prayer: Jesus come into every home in our community. May each one of our neighbors have the privilege of tasting and seeing that you are good.May your invitation flow from our lips to a love-starved world. Amen.

- Written by Paco Amador