Paul gives us a beautiful image of what it means to be a Christian - or for that matter, a real human being. He calls us to recognize that no one is more important than another - all our gifts are for the common good. We should strive to outdo one another in kindness and genuine love. Be different - do not curse those who mistreat you but bless them. Be patient and filled with hope. Live in humility and solidarity with others. A great recipe for a happy and spiritually rich life! Why is it so difficult? This should be our daily goal.

It is too easy to take our family and friends for granted. Sometimes we might not be sensitive to their feelings and needs, and we might even push them to the back of our mind as we become distracted by many things. How much more with God! The people in the story were just too busy about many things to heed the invitation to the banquet. A feast had been prepared for them but they preferred other things. The host was angry and invited outsiders in their place. God too has prepared a 'feast' for us. We cannot presume on our status as Christians - we have no 'right' to God's blessings. If we do not respond to God's call - if our commitment, faith, and love grow cold - God will find those who are eager and grateful for a divine invitation.