There is no need to discuss why you did not attend the wedding; place the focus on the present time — a meal and fellowship. If there are pointed questions from the "couple," "why did you not attend the wedding?" deflect them with a bright smile and something like "we wanted to enjoy your presence in a smaller setting." Then move the conversation in a different direction.
This is flat-out deceitful.
“This is flat-out deceitful.”
I agree. And why would a Christian pretend everything is all right? Why would a Christian “enjoy” their company?
Exodus 23:2
You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice.
Proverbs 24:1
Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them.
This is absurd. What will the suggestion be next? Invite the unrepentant, serial killer, pedophile to your house for dinner with your wife and kids? We must be sure he knows he is loved and God really needs his friendship just like we do, right?
It is possible to treat the lost, even wicked people, in a manner that is not hateful and insulting while also not pretending that sins like this are normal behavior.
Not only is God going to judge it, He is going to judge our nation for tolerating it and even promoting it.