Scripture
"But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." (Luke 14: 13, 14)
Observation
In a conversation with a successful friend of mine I asked the question, “what did it take to get to the point were your voice mattered and your efforts were valued and respected?” It took awhile for this person to answer, but when he did, it came in two parts:
#1 – In order to gain influence and a voice, you need to at first be influenced and follow a voice. That voice needs to be Jesus’, so stay anchored in His word and be always in prayer.
#2 – Treat everyone the same.
Number 2 is what got my attention that day, and this day.
Application
Jesus lays it out in even simpler and obvious terms, “invite everyone, regardless of what they can do for you, and you will be repaid at the resurrection of righteousness.” Tendency is to do unto others because they can and hopefully will eventually do unto me. I’ve seen others do that. I’ve done that. It’s much easier to invite the ones who can get things done.
Yet Jesus calls me to give openly and freely to those who can offer nothing to me in return. He desires of me unconditional charity, indiscriminate mercy and unconditional love. The reward, the “payback” will come when He returns to claim me as my own.
Influence is good when used for pure purposes. And the best way to gain influence is by charity to all, not charming those who may elevate status or position. One is built on Biblical principles, the other finds its motivation in the world’s standards and strategies. Being influential, being successful is all good, but pale in comparison to being Christ-like. He has called me to love Him and love His people. That needs to supersede all ambition to have a good seat at the table.
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for not just setting the standard but by exampling it through how You lived your life on earth. Thank you for Your calling me to serve and I commit it all to bring glory to Your name alone. May my charity towards others always replace my tendency to charm. Amen
