“The older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing.”
Luke 15:25
In the parable of the prodigal son, the older of two brothers came in from the field and heard sounds of music and laughter drifting to his ears. Surprised (and maybe feeling left out), he inquired what was going on. A servant told him the celebration was honoring the return of his long-lost younger brother. How this angered him! He refused to go in and join the party.
But his father came outside to meet him, reminding him of the sorrow he’d suffered when his brother demanded his inheritance and left home. Now there was pure joy because the son finally recognized his sin and returned.
The father represents God. The impatient younger son as well as the disdainful older son represent us. We at times find ourselves in either of their positions: being willful and rebellious, or jealously judging the grace shown to another.
Whatever place of sin we return from, God runs to us and welcomes us with open arms. When we repent and go to Him in prayer and worship, we see how deep and wide His grace extends. Isn’t that cause for singing and celebrating?
But his father came outside to meet him, reminding him of the sorrow he’d suffered when his brother demanded his inheritance and left home. Now there was pure joy because the son finally recognized his sin and returned.
The father represents God. The impatient younger son as well as the disdainful older son represent us. We at times find ourselves in either of their positions: being willful and rebellious, or jealously judging the grace shown to another.
Whatever place of sin we return from, God runs to us and welcomes us with open arms. When we repent and go to Him in prayer and worship, we see how deep and wide His grace extends. Isn’t that cause for singing and celebrating?
Scripture Focus
Luke 15:11-31
Insight
“I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:10)
Bible In A Year
- Lamentations 1-2
- Psalm 128
- 2 Corinthians 9-10