Essays
All Things Are Ready
All things are ready
Every time we have an all-church picnic, I reflect on that old song, (it’s not in our current hymnal): All things are ready, come to the feast, come for the table now is spread; Ye famishing, ye weary come, and thou shalt be richly fed. Of course, it’s focus is not actually on a picnic per se, but rather on “feasting in the kingdom of God”. It’s a call to embrace God’s great invitation. The song ends with the words, “Praise God for full salvation for whosoever will.” The colorful phrases employed in that old song are especially meaningful: the door is open wide; a place of honor is reserved; He waits to welcome thee; feast upon the love of God; and drink everlasting life.
One of the Biblical texts that was apparently on the song writer’s mind was Lk.14:16ff - - the parable of the dinner: “a certain man was giving a big dinner and he invited many…”. Surely all would respond favorably to such a grand invitation. Sadly, our Lord’s story reveals that many did not. Quite the contrary, “they all alike began TO MAKE EXCUSES” (Lk.14:18). How tragic - - that God would go to such lengths to make a way of salvation for all, and yet many would spurn His wonderful invitation. The song includes this warning: delay not while this day is thine, tomorrow may never be. As for me and my house, we’re going to the feast! How about you?
Terry Siverd / Cortland Church of Christ
