It’s an honor to be invited into someone’s home and to sit down to a meal they prepared especially for you and your family. The home is a sacred area that not just anyone is able to enter. The host has some reason to want you there. The table is lovingly set with all the little details that make it an enjoyable experience. Extra care was put into the food and drink. You are welcomed and shown hospitality in a unique and special way.
Several times in the book of Proverbs wisdom is pictured as a lady who invites us to a dinner at her home. Chapter nine is one of those times.
1 Wisdom has built her house;
she has set up its seven pillars.
2 She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;
she has also set her table. (9:1-2)
One commentator mentions that three pillars might be normal for a house in those times. Seven is a large home. Like . . . . in one of the nicer neighborhoods of our communities. Seven is also a number for completeness in the Scriptures, so we have an indication that this house of wisdom doesn’t lack anything. The meal is elegant and delicious.
She has sent out her servants, and she calls
from the highest point of the city (9:3).
This is not a secret! God’s wisdom is not for a select few. All are welcome.
“Let all who are simple come to my house!” (9:4)
Leave your simple ways and you will live …. (9:6)
The invitation is to the “simple.” Not a complimentary term. Proverbs 14:15 can help us get a handle on what being spiritually “simple” refers to in this book: The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. “Simple” would be following any ideas that pop up or current fads, being naïve about the spiritual life with God and the greatness of God’s kingdom, easily deceived by the attractions of the world. A temptation for us all in our sinful nature.
God’s wisdom points us to our Savior Jesus, to a life of service and love, to a greater purpose and knowing who we are in Christ. We are surrounded by opportunities to grow in the wisdom of the Lord at home, at church, and really wherever we go.
You’re invited! All has been prepared with grace and love by our God. The feast of God’s wisdom in his Word is ready for your enjoyment.