“So the couriers went from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh, and as far as Zebulun, but they laughed them to scorn and mocked them.” – 2 Chronicles 30:10
When King Hezekiah led the recommitment of Judah to the Lord and prepared a great Passover celebration, he extended the invitation to participate to the remnants of the people of Israel. He sent messengers throughout the wrecked nation of Israel, inviting all to return to the Lord, to gather in Jerusalem, to come to the temple, and to worship God.
His invitation was not well-received. The people of Israel were largely uninterested in spiritual matters. His invitation seemed quaint, old-fashioned, out of touch, and foolish. It was considered ridiculous for him to even ask.
The gathering that followed was a powerful and joyful time of renewal and fellowship for all who participated. There was tremendous spiritual power and blessing in that celebration. Hezekiah was no fool for holding the service or for trying to call back the lost sheep of Israel. The handful that responded encountered God.
Fast forward many centuries… The people of God should not be afraid of embarrassment or humiliation when we invite people to join our spiritual lives and gatherings. Many will reject, scorn, or mock the invitation. But we know the truth of what we ask and God is pleased by our asking. Renewal and blessing awaits, but many will pass on the opportunity. We must accept that. We must not judge our invitation by the numerical response but by our faithfulness to the Lord.