ONE INVITATION
Wednesday Sept 9, 2026
Scripture: Luke 15:20
Reflection: Most of us can remember a time when someone invited us. Someone saved us a seat. Someone introduced themselves when we felt out of place. Someone noticed us when it would have been easier to walk by. Someone just said, “Come with me.” We probably don’t think much about it at the time, but invitations can be powerful. In Luke 15, Jesus tells the story of a son who leaves home, makes a mess of his life, and eventually finds himself wondering if he can ever go back. But when he finally turns toward home, Jesus tells us that while he is still far away, his father sees him. The father hasn’t forgotten him, stopped loving him or taken away his place at the table. He’s been watching the road. There are people all around us who might feel a long way from home. Some have been hurt by the Church. Some have questions. Some have made mistakes they think disqualify them. Or some have been away so long that walking back through the doors feels intimidating. They may not know that there’s still a place for them. That friends, is where we come in. We can’t make anyone believe.
We can’t force anyone to follow Jesus. And we definitely shouldn’t pressure anyone into church. But we can make sure they know they’re invited. Maybe it’s a text or a cup of coffee.
Maybe meet the at the door so they don’t have to walk in alone. Never underestimate what God can do through one simple invitation.
Consider This:
- Think about one person. One name. One face. One person God has placed in your life.
- Then pay attention because someone you know may think they’ve gone too far, been gone too long, or wouldn’t be welcome.
- Then tell them that God is still watching the road there’s still a place at the table.
- They may not know there’s still a place for them until you tell them.
Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for the people who have made room for us, encouraged us, and helped us find our way to you. Now place one person on our hearts. Help us see them as you see them. Give us the right opportunity, the right words, and the courage to reach out.
Keep us from assuming someone else will do it. Use our friendship, our kindness, and even a simple invitation to remind someone that they are seen, they are loved, and there is still a place for them. And when the moment comes, give us the courage to say, “Come with me.”
In Jesus’ name, Amen.