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An "excuse" is an entirely different thing from "a reason." "A reason" comes into the mind before a conclusion; "an excuse" follows after. The conclusion rests upon the "reason." Its only wish is to appear to rest upon the "excuse." "A reason" is a reality; an "excuse" is, generally, an invention: or, at the best, an "excuse" is the second or inferior "reason." It is not the primary, actuating motive. The "reason" Adam ate the fruit was that he liked it; the "excuse" was, "She gave it me." The "reason" why the man "hid his talent," was, that he was indifferent and lazy — "a wicked and slothful servant"; the "excuse" was, "I knew thee — thou art an austere man." The "reason" the Jews killed Christ, was, because they were jealous of Him; and hated Him for His holiness and His reproofs; the "excuse" was that He spoke against Caesar, and uttered blasphemy. The "reason" why all the men who were "bidden to the great supper" refused to come, was that they did not care for it; or preferred something else; the "excuses" were the same — of duty, and prior or more important engagements. If you knew God — and what those "things" are "which He has prepared for them that love Him," all "excuses" would be flung to the winds. It would not be, "Have me excused!" but, "I come!... I come!" "Me first — me now — me for ever! Lord, bid me — Lord, let me — Lord, make me come!"

(J. Vaughan, M. A.)

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KJV: Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

WEB: But he said to him, "A certain man made a great supper, and he invited many people.