Reflection on Chapter 4 of A Meal With Jesus

Meals in the Gospel of Luke are never just about food—they reveal something deeper about the kingdom of God. In Luke 14, Jesus is at the home of a Pharisee for a Sabbath meal, but He quickly turns the dinner into a lesson about humility, hospitality, and the radical grace of God. The chapter begins with Jesus healing a man with dropsy, despite the Pharisees’ legalistic objections. He then challenges the social customs of the day, telling His host that true hospitality is not about inviting the powerful or wealthy, but about making room for those who can never repay you—the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. This theme of radical welcome leads into one of Jesus’ most powerful parables: The Parable of the Great Banquet.

At the heart of this parable is the contrast between those who accept God’s invitation and those who reject it. A man prepares a lavish feast and invites many guests, but one by one, they make excuses and decline. Their priorities—business, possessions, and relationships—keep them from responding.

Meanwhile, the invitation is extended to those who would have never expected a seat at the table: the marginalized, the outcasts, and the forgotten. Even after they arrive, there is still room, so the host sends his servant further—to the highways and hedges—compelling even more people to come. This radical hospitality reveals the heart of God’s kingdom: it is for the humble, not the proud; for the hungry, not the self-satisfied; for those who recognize their need for grace, not for those who believe they have earned their place.

The parable also challenges us to consider our own response to God’s invitation. Are we too distracted by the cares of life to accept the call of the kingdom? Have we made excuses that keep us from fully embracing the life Jesus offers? Or do we come eagerly, knowing we have nothing to bring but a willingness to receive? At the same time, Jesus calls us to extend this same radical hospitality to others. The kingdom of God is not an exclusive club—it is a banquet open to all, especially those the world overlooks. Our lives should reflect this invitation, welcoming the broken, the forgotten, and the outsider with open arms.

Finally, this parable reminds us that following Jesus comes with a cost. The invitation to the banquet is free, but it requires a response. To accept it means prioritizing His kingdom above our personal comforts, social expectations, and worldly concerns. In A Meal with Jesus, Tim Chester writes, “The kingdom of God is for the hungry, not the self-satisfied. It’s for the poor in spirit, not the proud. It’s for those who know they need grace, not those who think they’ve earned it.” This week’s devotions will explore themes of true hospitality, the distractions that keep us from Christ, the radical welcome of God, and the cost of discipleship. The banquet is ready. The invitation is open. The only question is—will we come?

Daily Devotions

Day 1: The Healing Before the Feast

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:1-6 – “One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.”

Secondary Scripture: Isaiah 58:6 – “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”

For Adults:

Jesus never wasted an opportunity to reveal the heart of God, and this Sabbath meal at a Pharisee’s house is no exception. As He sits among the religious elite, a man suffering from dropsy (a painful swelling of the body) stands before Him. The Pharisees remain silent, unwilling to voice their judgment out loud, but their scrutiny is clear—will Jesus dare to heal on the Sabbath?

Instead of shying away, Jesus exposes the hypocrisy of their thinking. If they would rescue an ox or a child who had fallen into a well on the Sabbath, why should He not show mercy to a suffering man? By healing him, Jesus declares that God’s kingdom is not about rigid rule-following but about compassion, healing, and restoration. The Pharisees’ silence is telling. They cared more about preserving their traditions than about extending mercy.

This moment challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we prioritize religious customs and personal comforts over loving others? Do we see those in need as an inconvenience, or do we view them as beloved guests at God’s table? Jesus invites us to live in a way that reflects His kingdom—a life where healing, mercy, and radical love come first.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you ever let religious tradition or personal comfort take priority over showing compassion?

• Where do you see opportunities to bring healing and kindness into someone’s life today?

• How does this story challenge your understanding of true hospitality?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time when you saw God’s mercy in action—either in your own life or in someone else’s. How did it change your understanding of His love?

Prayer:

Jesus, help me to see people with Your eyes. Teach me to extend mercy even when it challenges my expectations. May my life reflect the healing and love of Your kingdom. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): One day, Jesus went to a fancy dinner, and there was a man who was very sick. Some people thought Jesus shouldn’t help him because it was the Sabbath, a special day for rest. But Jesus knew that loving and helping others is always the right thing to do, so He healed the man!

Activity:

Draw a picture of Jesus helping someone in need. Talk about ways we can help others, just like Jesus did.

Discussion Questions:

• Why do you think Jesus helped the sick man even when others didn’t want Him to?

• How can we show kindness and care for others, even when it’s not easy?

Day 2: Choosing the Lowest Seat

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:7-11 – “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Secondary Scripture: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

For Adults:

At this dinner party, Jesus watches as guests rush to secure the best seats—those closest to the host, which signified honor and status. Then He shares a parable that flips the world’s values upside down: in God’s kingdom, the humble are lifted up, and the proud are brought low.

The Greek word for “welcome” (προσδέχομαι, prosdechomai) that Jesus uses in this passage carries the meaning of receiving someone with open arms, expecting and embracing them fully. But the Pharisees sought self-promotion, not true welcome. They positioned themselves for importance rather than opening their hearts to others.

Humility is not about thinking less of ourselves; it’s about thinking of ourselves less. Jesus invites us to stop striving for recognition and instead embrace a posture of humility, generosity, and servant-heartedness. When we take the “lowest seat,” trusting God to lift us up, we are free from the exhausting race for approval.

Reflection Questions:

• In what areas of life do you find yourself seeking recognition or approval?

• What does it mean to truly “take the lowest seat” in your relationships and community?

• How does Jesus’ teaching on humility challenge the way you live?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time when you humbled yourself and saw God work in surprising ways. How did it change you?

Prayer:

Jesus, teach me to live with humility. Help me to value others above myself and trust You to give me my place in Your kingdom. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): Jesus told a story about people at a party. Some wanted the best seats, but Jesus said it’s better to take a humble seat and let the host invite you up.

Activity:

Set up chairs and play a “party” game where kids practice taking the lowest seat first. Then, let them invite each other to move up!

Discussion Questions:

• Why do you think Jesus wants us to be humble instead of trying to be the most important?

• How can we show kindness by letting others go first?

Day 3: Inviting the Unlikely Guests

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:12-14 – “But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed.”

Secondary Scripture: James 2:5 – “Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised?”

For Adults:

Jesus’ next challenge to His host is radical: when you throw a feast, don’t invite those who can repay you. Instead, invite those who have nothing to give in return. In Jesus’ culture, meals were deeply tied to social status and reciprocity. You invited people who could later invite you to their own feasts, ensuring your place in high society. But Jesus turns this practice on its head. The kingdom of God is not about getting ahead—it’s about giving with no strings attached.

This passage asks us to examine who we include and exclude in our lives. Do we only associate with those who make us comfortable, who benefit us in some way? Or do we extend the kind of hospitality Jesus models—welcoming the forgotten, the overlooked, and the ones the world dismisses? True hospitality reflects the heart of God, offering love with no expectation of return.

Reflection Questions:

• Who are the people in your life that Jesus might be calling you to welcome?

• How can you practice generosity in a way that expects nothing in return?

• What does this passage teach us about God’s love for the outcast?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time when someone welcomed you unexpectedly. How did it make you feel? How can you extend that kind of hospitality to others?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to love with no expectations. May my life reflect the radical welcome of Your kingdom. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): Jesus said that when we have a party, we shouldn’t just invite friends who can invite us back. Instead, we should invite those who are lonely or left out.

Activity:

“Who Would Jesus Invite?” Collage – Cut out pictures from old magazines or draw different kinds of people (rich, poor, young, old, different backgrounds). Then, glue them onto a big piece of paper and write “Everyone is Welcome in God’s Kingdom!”

Discussion Questions:

• How do you feel when someone invites you to something fun?

• How can we be like Jesus by including others, even those who might feel left out?

Day 4: The Great Banquet – No More Excuses

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:16-20 – “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses.”

Secondary Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:2 – “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

For Adults:

Jesus tells a parable about a man who throws a grand feast, inviting many people. But when the time comes, his guests all make excuses. One says he just bought a field, another claims he must test new oxen, and another says he just got married. Their reasons sound practical, but they expose a deeper truth: they don’t see the invitation as a priority.

This parable reflects how often we put lesser things ahead of God. We make excuses—too busy, too tired, too distracted—to accept His invitation into deeper relationship. But God’s kingdom is not something we should delay. The feast is ready now. What is keeping you from fully embracing it?

Reflection Questions:

• What are the “excuses” that keep you from fully engaging with God?

• How does this parable challenge the way you prioritize faith in daily life?

• What might it look like to say “yes” to God’s invitation today?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time you made an excuse to avoid something important. What happened? What did you learn?

Prayer:

God, forgive me for the times I put other things ahead of You. Help me say “yes” to Your invitation every day. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): A man threw a big party and invited lots of people, but they all made excuses and didn’t come! So he invited new guests—anyone who would say “yes!”

Activity:

“No More Excuses” Game – Have the kids take turns making silly excuses (“I can’t come because my pet dinosaur needs a bath!”), then talk about how important it is to say yes to Jesus instead of making excuses.

Discussion Questions:

• Have you ever made an excuse to get out of something?

• Why do you think Jesus wants us to say “yes” when He invites us?

Day 5: The Unexpected Guests

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:21-23 – “‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame… so that my house will be full.’”

Secondary Scripture: Isaiah 55:1 – “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters.”

For Adults:

When the original guests refuse to come, the host doesn’t cancel the feast. Instead, he sends his servant to invite the poor, the outcast, and the forgotten. Jesus is showing us something radical about who belongs in God’s kingdom.

In Jesus’ time, religious leaders believed only the “worthy” were invited into God’s presence. But Jesus flings open the doors. He invites those who feel unworthy, those who think they don’t belong. No one is too broken for God’s banquet.

Maybe you’ve felt unworthy before. Maybe you’ve believed the lie that you’re not good enough for God’s love. But Jesus says otherwise. His table is open, and He wants you there.

Reflection Questions:

• What does this parable teach us about God’s invitation?

• Have you ever felt like an outsider in faith? How does Jesus’ welcome change that?

• Who in your life might need to hear that God’s love is for them, too?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time when you were included in something unexpectedly. How did it feel?

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You for inviting me to Your table, no matter who I am or what I’ve done. Help me share Your welcome with others. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): When the guests didn’t come, the man invited everyone— people who were poor, sick, or left out. He wanted his table to be full!

Activity:

“Play-Doh Hearts”

Supplies:

Play-Doh or modeling clay in various colors.

Instructions:

1. Have kids form a heart out of Play-Doh.

2. Talk about how hearts can be soft or hard. A soft heart is open to love, kindness, and Jesus’ mercy. A hard heart refuses to forgive or love.

3. Ask them to squeeze and shape the heart—what happens when we are open to God’s love? What happens if we refuse to change?

4. Let them remold their hearts, showing how God’s mercy can soften even the hardest hearts.

Discussion Questions:

• How does Jesus show mercy in today’s story?

• What does it mean to have a “soft heart” toward others?

• How can we show kindness like Jesus does?

Day 6: Counting the Cost

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:25-27 – “Whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

Secondary Scripture: Matthew 16:24 – “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

For Adults:

Jesus’ invitation is free—but it isn’t easy. After the banquet parable, Jesus warns that following Him means sacrifice. He compares it to carrying a cross—letting go of comfort, selfishness, and personal plans to trust in Him.

Faith is not about adding Jesus on top of an already busy life. It’s about letting Him reshape your priorities. Are you willing to follow, even when it’s inconvenient? Even when it costs something?

Reflection Questions:

• What sacrifices—big or small—has following Jesus required of you?

• Are there areas where you hold back from fully committing to Jesus?

• What does it mean for you to carry your cross in daily life?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a time when following Jesus was difficult, but worth it.

Prayer:

Jesus, I want to follow You with my whole heart. Give me the courage to trust You, even when it’s hard. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): Jesus said following Him is important, but it’s not always easy. We have to be ready to listen to Him and put Him first.

Activity:

“What’s Most Important?” Sorting Game – Have kids sort cards into two piles: “Most Important” (things like Jesus, kindness, family) and “Less Important” (things like video games, toys, etc.). Talk about what should come first in our lives.

Discussion Questions:

• Why do you think Jesus wants us to follow Him first?

• What does it mean to love Jesus more than other things?

Day 7: The Joy of the Feast

Primary Scripture: Luke 14:15 – “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”

Secondary Scripture: Revelation 19:9 – “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb.”

For Adults:

At the beginning of this passage, someone says, “Blessed is the one who will eat at God’s feast.” They were right—but they didn’t realize the feast was already happening!

The kingdom of God isn’t just something in the future. Jesus is already inviting us into a life of joy, purpose, and abundance. The great banquet isn’t just one day in heaven—it’s also right now, whenever we gather in Jesus’ name.

Reflection Questions:

• Where have you seen glimpses of God’s feast in your life?

• How can you share the joy of Jesus’ invitation with others?

• What are you most looking forward to about God’s eternal feast?

Optional Journal Prompt:

Write about a meal or gathering where you felt deep joy and connection. How might that be a reflection of God’s kingdom?

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You for inviting me into a life of joy and abundance. Help me celebrate Your kingdom every day. Amen.

For Kids:

Bible Story (Paraphrased): Jesus says God’s kingdom is like a big feast where everyone is welcome and happy!

Activity:

“Heavenly Feast” Drawing – Have kids draw a picture of what they imagine God’s feast looks like!

Discussion Questions:

• What do you think God’s big feast will be like?

• How can we celebrate Jesus every day?

Week 4 Playlist: The Open Table: Songs of Invitation, Justice, and Grace

"Give Me Your Eyes" – Brandon Heath (Contemporary Christian) Theme: Seeing Others, Compassion

This song challenges us to see people the way Jesus does—especially those we often overlook.

"All Are Welcome" (ELW 641) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: Radical Hospitality

This hymn reflects the open invitation of God’s kingdom, where every person is embraced with love.

"No Outsiders" – Rend Collective (Contemporary Christian) Theme: Inclusivity, God’s Welcome

A powerful reminder that in God’s kingdom, no one is excluded.

"Losers" – Post Malone (Secular) Theme: Redemption, Belonging

This song reflects themes of being on the outside, struggling, and finding a place where you belong—mirroring Jesus’ call to the outcasts.

"For the Healing of the Nations" (ELW 612) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: Justice, Healing, Sharing God’s Love

A call for healing and justice in a world where people are still left out.

"They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love" – Jars of Clay (Worship Classic) Theme: Serving Others, Living the Gospel

A classic reminder that our love for others should reflect Jesus’ love for us.

"People Get Ready" – The Impressions (Gospel/Soul) Theme: Preparing for God’s Kingdom

This song speaks of God’s coming kingdom and how we are called to prepare by welcoming others.

"Do Something" – Matthew West (Contemporary Christian) Theme: Action, Helping Those in Need

This song challenges us to go beyond words and take action in serving others.

"One Day" – Matisyahu (Reggae/Spiritual) Theme: Hope, A Better World

A hopeful vision of a future where all people live in unity and love, reflecting the banquet of God’s kingdom.

"Count on Me" – Bruno Mars (Secular) Theme: Friendship, Supporting Others

A song about being there for people in need, just as Jesus calls us to be for the forgotten and outcast.

Art Connection for Week 4: “The Open Table” – Radical Hospitality

This week’s theme focuses on Jesus’ banquet invitation and how His kingdom welcomes the poor, the outcasts, and those who are often overlooked. These art projects help participants reflect on what it means to make space for others and how hospitality can be lived out.

For Adults & Older Children:

Option 1: “The Open Table” Collage

Supplies Needed:

Magazines, newspapers, or printed images
Scissors, glue, poster board or cardstock
Markers for adding words or reflections

Instructions:

Cut out images of people from all walks of life—different ages, backgrounds, and social groups.
Arrange the images around a large, open table drawn or printed in the center.
On the table, write words or phrases that represent what Jesus’ invitation means (e.g., grace, welcome, belonging, forgiveness).
Reflect on who is often excluded in society or in your own circles, and how you can extend radical hospitality.

Reflection Questions:

Who is missing from your table, your church, or your community?
How can we reflect God’s invitation to those who feel left out?

Option 2: “Breaking Barriers” Abstract Painting

Supplies Needed:

Canvas or thick paper
Acrylic or watercolor paints
Brushes and sponges

Instructions:

Create a background with chaotic brushstrokes or barriers (symbolizing exclusion).
Use bright, welcoming colors to paint a long, open table over it, breaking through the division.
Add silhouettes of people gathering at the table, using dark outlines or vibrant colors.
Reflect on the contrast between division and inclusion and how Jesus breaks down social barriers.

Reflection Questions:

What barriers exist in our lives that prevent true hospitality?
How does Jesus’ open table challenge us to go beyond our comfort zones?

For Children (Elementary Age):

Option 1: “Make Room” Tablecloth Art

Supplies Needed:

Large piece of butcher paper or an old bedsheet (to act as a “tablecloth”)
Markers, fabric paint, or stickers
Stamps or handprints (optional)

Instructions:

Lay out the paper or fabric on a table.
Have kids draw plates, cups, and seats to create a big banquet table.
Inside the plates or chairs, write names of people Jesus would invite—friends, strangers, people who need love.
Add decorations that show joy, welcome, and kindness.
Use handprints, stamps, or stickers to make it more colorful.
When finished, place it on the dinner table for mealtime discussion on hospitality.

Discussion Questions:

What would Jesus’ table look like?
Why does God want us to invite others in?
How can we make room for people who feel left out?

Option 2: “Surprise Hospitality” Goodie Bags

Supplies Needed:

Brown paper bags or gift bags
Markers, stickers, or stamps
Small treats (granola bars, fruit snacks, homemade cookies, notes of encouragement)

Instructions:

Decorate the bags with words of welcome and kindness (e.g., “You Belong!” or “God’s Love is for You!”).
Fill each bag with a small treat or a simple homemade gift like a hand-drawn picture or a written prayer.
The Challenge: Kids must secretly leave these for someone who might need encouragement—a neighbor, a classmate, or a family member.
Pray for the person receiving the gift before delivering it.

Discussion Questions:

How does a small act of kindness make someone feel loved?
Why does Jesus tell us to give to those in need without expecting anything in return?

For Younger Children (Preschool & Early Elementary):

Option 1: "Jesus’ Banquet Table" Pop-Up Craft

Supplies Needed:

Construction paper
Scissors & glue
Markers or crayons

Instructions:

Fold a piece of paper in half and cut two small slits in the fold.
When you open it, push out the cut piece to make a pop-up table.
Draw people sitting at the table—not just friends, but people who might feel left out.
Add Jesus standing with open arms at the head of the table.
Write “Jesus Invites Everyone” on the front.

Discussion Questions:

Who is sitting at Jesus’ table in your picture?
Who might feel left out, and how can we invite them in?

Option 2: “Set the Table” Role-Play Activity

Supplies Needed:

Play dishes or a real table setting
Stuffed animals or toy figurines
A blanket or towel to use as a tablecloth

Instructions:

Have kids set a table for guests—but instead of using typical guests, use stuffed animals, dolls, or even unusual objects like a rock or toy dinosaur.
Talk about how Jesus invites the unexpected people to His table, just like in the story.
Encourage them to make everyone feel welcome, just as Jesus does.
Take turns saying something kind or welcoming to each guest at the table.

Discussion Questions:

How can we practice welcoming others in real life?
What would Jesus say to the guests at His table?

Weekly Blessing: Sharing with the Poor – The Banquet of Grace

(For individuals or families to pray together at the table, before bed, or during devotion time.)

God of Abundance,You prepare a feast where all are welcome,where the hungry are fed, and the forgotten are seen.You invite us to share not just our food,but our hearts, our tables, and our lives.

Bless us with generous hands that give freely,open doors that welcome strangers,and humble spirits that recognize Your grace in every guest.

May our homes reflect Your kingdom,where no one is left out,where love is served in abundance,and where all find a place at Your table.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.