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Neil Cudney explores how the parable of the banquet challenges us to put people with disabilities at the centre of our community life. He highlights the upside-down values of God’s Kingdom, where the vulnerable lead and belong fully. His reflection calls for intentional inclusion that goes beyond mere tokenism.
Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash
WORD:
“Then he turned to his host. ‘When you put on a luncheon or a banquet,’ he said, ‘“don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.’“ (Luke 14:13-14, NLT)
THOUGHT:
The parable of the banquet is an inside-look into the heart of God and God’s future kingdom. Including persons with disabilities is not to be a “last thought” or a “token nod.” People with disabilities are to be at the forefront of our consideration. God’s Kingdom is upside-down to the kingdom of the world. Those who are fast and strong, move to the back. Those who are weak and move slowly, to the front. The first shall be last, and the last – first.
PRAYER:
Father God, help us to know how and where we are to invite those with disabilities to be present at our ‘tables’. May we never become complacent that while even if we are in the ‘business’ of providing supports, we can too easily assume or overlook the presence of those with disabilities.
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About the Author:
Neil Cudney:
Dr. Neil Cudney is a respected voice in the global conversation on theology and disability. With extensive experience teaching on the theology of disability and accessible ministry, he has shared his expertise at conferences, seminaries, and colleges worldwide. Dr. Cudney's work reflects a deep commitment to fostering understanding, inclusion, and the transformative power of faith in the context of disability.
Recent Posts:
Neil Cudney explores how the parable of the banquet challenges us to put people with disabilities at the centre of our community life. He highlights the upside-down values of God’s Kingdom, where the vulnerable lead and belong fully. His reflection calls for intentional inclusion that goes beyond mere tokenism.
Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash
WORD:
“Then he turned to his host. ‘When you put on a luncheon or a banquet,’ he said, ‘“don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.’“ (Luke 14:13-14, NLT)
THOUGHT:
The parable of the banquet is an inside-look into the heart of God and God’s future kingdom. Including persons with disabilities is not to be a “last thought” or a “token nod.” People with disabilities are to be at the forefront of our consideration. God’s Kingdom is upside-down to the kingdom of the world. Those who are fast and strong, move to the back. Those who are weak and move slowly, to the front. The first shall be last, and the last – first.
PRAYER:
Father God, help us to know how and where we are to invite those with disabilities to be present at our ‘tables’. May we never become complacent that while even if we are in the ‘business’ of providing supports, we can too easily assume or overlook the presence of those with disabilities.
