Proper 23: Gospel, Matthew 22:1-14                                      

Matthew 22:1-14

Worthiness. Weddings. Conflict. Clothing. All these are elements of the story Jesus relates in this chapter regarding His Kingdom. The Master Storyteller gazes about Himself and takes to setting forth a wedding as an apt display of His Kingdom. So much has been developed since on this theme, but the focus here is on those invited to attend. Quick summary: those invited have no interest. In fact, as the tale goes they find just about anything else to take place of the festivities planned. More are invited, so much does the king love his son that He wants others to know that love, too. The second round of invitations meets with worse response than the first, with even the death of some of those sent out to deliver the good news. But one is in attendance.

The king takes notice, and while one might think the king would be glad for the acceptance, there is the issue of coming in having met the established terms. No doubt the story assumes that is known and when the man comes in without meeting the criteria, expressed here as the right attire, the king is furious and has the one in violation sent to an alternate gathering.

Making such a deal about garments? Seems harsh. But the king sets the parameters. And the guest coming in on his own terms is the ultimate in disrespect. Worthiness for this wedding comes in a garment worn. And it points to the fact that you and I need the right clothing to enter our eternal home. The garment is Christ. There are no options, no substitutes that will avail.

The wedding in the story was an exclusive affair. So is the Kingdom of God. Don’t misunderstand, the King wants everyone to “attend.” But entrance is not only by His invitation, but by His standard. His alone. Dress appropriately.