E-vite from God

Today we're going to talk about something everyone likes to go to: Parties!

Have any of you been to a party? What was the occasion? (Birthday, Christmas, end of the year school party)

Let's pretend that you're having a party. You get all the food, the cake, and the decorations ready. The games are ready. You send out e-vites on the computer.

All of your friends reply back, "I'll come! Looking forward to it! Wouldn't miss it!"

The big day arrives, and guess what? Nobody shows up. How would you feel? (sad, disappointed, angry)

Jesus told a story about a king who was having a party for his son. He invited a lot of people, and when it was time for the party, he sent his servants out to get them. You know what? Nobody was able to come. Each person had an excuse, like "I'm busy," or "I have other plans that are more important."

A little later, he sent more servants to his friends. The king said, "Tell them the food is ready!" Still, they did not come to the party. Finally, the king decided that those he had invited did not come because they didn't deserve to come.

They missed the party.

The party that Jesus was talking about is being given by God. This is a once-in-a-lifetime party. It lasts forever. Can you believe people have been talking about this party for 2,000 years?

Jesus is here with your invitation. It is written in the Bible. God has sent everyone an invitation. You, me, your friends, your neighbors, and all the people sitting in here today. We're here to celebrate the good news that Jesus has brought us! He has died for our sins so that we may have eternal life.

I would like each one of you to accept this invitation. Pray, come to church, read the Bible, listen to your parents. Find out what you have to look forward to. Jesus says, "You don't want to miss this party!"

Let's bow our heads in prayer.

Dear God, we look forward to the day when we can celebrate the gift of your Son with you. We know you are preparing a place at your table, just for us. We will be there. Amen.