The parables of Jesus are so rich in spiritual instruction that the lessons to be learned from them are as varied as human experiences. When they are studied in the right spirit, the earnest seeker for divine guidance often feels as though they were addressed to him personally; and so they are if he is ready for the lessons they are intended to teach. The true disciple never grows weary of Jesus' teachings; he always finds in them something new and practical. Mrs. Eddy says: "Our Master taught spirituality by similitudes and parables. As a divine student he unfolded God to man" (Science and Health, p. 117).
In the parable of the great supper, as recorded in the fourteenth chapter of Luke's gospel, four classes of persons are referred to, and there is to be found therein a most helpful lesson for each. First there is the servant who called the guests; then there are those who were bidden but later excused themselves; next are the poor, the maimed, the halt, and the blind; and lastly those who were compelled to come in.
We read that "a certain main made a great supper, and bade many." This "certain man" is surely divine Love; and the supper that is prepared is a feast of good things, to be found only in the true consciousness of being. The invited ones are those who have heard the voice of Truth, and many are called. All to whom the word has been spoken, in whatever manner; those who have witnessed the healing and regenerating power of Truth as manifested in the lives of others, of neighbors, friends, and relatives,—to them has the invitation been extended. The words of Isaiah, "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price," have echoed down the centuries, and many have heard and were glad.
