“But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
Luke 15:32
In the parable of the prodigal son (or “the running father”), years had passed with the father keeping watch for his son’s return. The young man had walked away, taking his early inheritance with him. Had he found success? Had he made wise investments with his resources? Perhaps he would return having learned much from his time out on his own.
I imagine any time the father saw a traveler, he’d perk up and wonder if it could be his son. One day it really was him, but his appearance was quite changed. The father couldn’t wait until his son reached home. He ran toward him, heart overflowing with compassion, unable to contain his joy. He called for a grand celebration. This ordinary day had suddenly become extraordinary.
Jesus told this story to show the heart of God the Father who longs for us to come home to Him. Where were you when you first responded to His outstretched arms? As a child I said yes to His offer of total forgiveness and full acceptance. I find that my true home is in the center of His grace.
I imagine any time the father saw a traveler, he’d perk up and wonder if it could be his son. One day it really was him, but his appearance was quite changed. The father couldn’t wait until his son reached home. He ran toward him, heart overflowing with compassion, unable to contain his joy. He called for a grand celebration. This ordinary day had suddenly become extraordinary.
Jesus told this story to show the heart of God the Father who longs for us to come home to Him. Where were you when you first responded to His outstretched arms? As a child I said yes to His offer of total forgiveness and full acceptance. I find that my true home is in the center of His grace.
Scripture Focus
Luke 15:11-32
Insight
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1)
Bible In A Year
- Job 29-30
- Psalm 56
- Luke 19
