God's Glory Church

“But as you make a feast, call the poor, the crippled, the crooked and the blind, and you will be blessed.” — Luke 14:13-14

In 2016, Wanda Dench sent her grandson a text inviting him to Thanksgiving dinner. However, the grandson changed the phone number, and the message was received by a complete stranger named Jamal. Jamal was free that day, so he called the sender back, introduced himself, and asked if the invitation was still valid. Wanda replied: “Of course, come.” Jamal came, and since then it has become an annual tradition for him. A mistaken invitation turned into a blessing.

Wanda’s kindness in inviting a stranger to dinner reminded me of Christ’s words in the Gospel of Luke. During a meal at the home of a Pharisee ruler (Lk. 14:1), Jesus noticed how the guests tried to take the best seats (v. 7), and told the host that if he invited only those who could call him back, it would deprive him of his blessing. It is better to invite the poor, and then God will reward him generously (v. 14).

For Wanda, Jamal’s invitation to join the family dinner turned out to be an unexpected blessing in the form of a strong friendship – a great comfort after her husband’s death. If we extend a helping hand to others not out of selfish reasons, but guided by God’s love, we will receive much more.

Has there ever been a time in your life when an unexpected invitation brought you a blessing? What did it consist of?

Heavenly Father, help me to be a blessing to others. Direct my heart.

Author: Lisa Samra