Revelation 22:17

“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him come who hears say, ‘Come!’  Whoever is thirsty, let him come, and whoever wishes let him take of the free gift of the water of life.'”

The table is set, the banquet is prepared.  All is ready. Who is to enjoy this meal of all meals?  Listen.

A voice is heard, the voice of the Holy Spirit of God and the voice of all who have already enjoyed the rich banquet and are now, in a sense, “invitors” or evangelists, welcoming other hungry people to simply come in without hesitation, and without money, and enjoy the full meal of God’s marvelous grace.

The Revelation does not close with a damnation of mankind but an invitation to a free banquet of God’s inimitable grace!  This is our message today, the testimony of those who make up Christ’s bride, the church, “Come and dine!”  We do not face judgment but salvation, not condemnation but acceptance.  What an invitation!  Unheard of.

I am aware of both the privilege and the responsibility that are ours.  We are privileged beyond words to eat the heavenly banquet, this special manna of God!  That privilege blesses all who will enter , who leave their sin under the Blood of Jesus, and enjoy the fruit of life.

I suppose we could say that the banquet is so wonderful and satisfying that we possibly forget about the many thousands who are hungry and thirsty.

No. Those who are hungry and thirsty after righteousness, while they enjoy the most amazing meal, are soon made aware of their new purpose for living, not only eating the wonderful meal of grace themselves but the joy of what comes next, the open invitation for all to come in and enjoy eternal salvation with them.

The Spirit of God says lovingly, “Come in.”  Those who are enjoying the banquet announce to friend and foe, “Come in!” The banquet is open for those whose garments are washed in the Blood of the Lamb.  v 14

The invitation is for all cultures, all nations, all peoples for all times. Imagine that, friend.  Come, sit with redeemed sinners – of which I am one, a blessed one.  And hasten to tell others of the banquet of God’s grace.

Now, this is a vision, a reality, worth living for.