Like many of my coworkers in the 1980s, I moonlighted as door security at a local bar after my patrol shift ended. Part of the job was keeping underage minors out. Fake IDs were common and often difficult to distinguish from the real thing.

On one especially busy night, I tested the patrons in the entrance line to see if their IDs were legit. Once they handed me the ID, I’d ask, “What is your date of birth? What about your social security number?” Usually, this was met with a deer-in-the-headlights look. “Ok, you’re not coming in,” I said. “Next!”

It didn’t take long for the line to learn my tactic. I walked outside and found people memorizing the information on their fake IDs to fool me. Some of them had their older sibling’s driver’s license. They hoped using someone else’s credentials would get them in. A lot of underage kids were turned away in frustration that night. 

Ironically, there is a place that requires someone else’s credentials to enter. If I  showed up at heaven’s entrance and was asked, “Why should you get in?” I wouldn’t tout my credentials. I know that no one will enter based on personal merit. Only Jesus is worthy of that. He alone has earned it. Thankfully, I am invited based on His credentials.  

I recently attended an awards banquet where a friend was honored. My friend earned the right to sit at the table. I was invited only because of what he did. At the door, the check-in attendant asked me who I was with. Then he found my name on the guest list. I asked, “Is there anything else I need to do?” He said, “No, your host has done everything for you. Please come in.” 

The Bible says there is future banquet planned that will honor a mutual Friend. You are invited to sit at the table. There is nothing you can do to earn it. God’s invitation comes with Christ’s credentials. Our host has done everything for us. Please don’t miss this!

And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.” (Revelation 19:9)