Dinner With JesusSample

Welcome the Uninvited Guest 

Have you ever hosted a dinner party only to have someone unexpected (and possibly unwanted) show up? 

Jesus went to Simon the Pharisee’s house for a prestigious dinner where topics of the day were to be discussed. Since the dining areas in the homes of the elite were often partially open to the street, the public could listen to the conversations.

Enter the “sinful woman” (Luke 7:37). Uninvited, the woman crossed the invisible barrier of protocol, shocking everyone in attendance with her action. Although self-righteous Simon was indignant, Jesus welcomed her because He saw her heart. She was seeking forgiveness. 

Jesus was often interrupted in His ministry by those who were desperate for His help in their lives. He wasn’t angry with any of them for messing with his agenda. Instead, He had compassion and stopped to meet their needs. The next time your seating chart is thrown off by an unexpected guest, think of the opportunity God has given you to welcome someone in Jesus’ name.

1. Could an unexpected guest in your life be an opportunity to minister?
2. Is there someone new at work, church, or school who you could befriend?
3. Do you know of an “outcast” who needs a friend?