The Father's Heart

Bible Reading: Luke 15:11-31

The Pharisees did not associate themselves with the sinners.  So, they complained when Jesus mingled with the sinners and tax collectors.  Jesus told these three parables in response to the Pharisees.  The story of the Prodigal Son is unique to the Gospel of Luke, and it is part of a triad. 

The first story is about a lost sheep, and the second one is about a lost coin.  The Prodigal's story is the climax of the three.  However, there is a common thread: in all the stories, something was lost, then found, and there was much joy.  All three can be interpreted independently, but together they convey a critical thought. 

Sheep are supposed to be dumb animals.  The sheep was lost because of its own foolishness.  The lost sheep would never be able to save itself, unless the shepherd goes after it.  The coin was lost due to its owner's carelessness.  Unless someone searched for it, the coin cannot be found.  But the son was lost due to his own willful disregard and disobedience to his earthly father.  The father did not give up but waited for him to realize his mistake and return.  We always think that only the prodigal son broke the father’s heart.  But I believe the elder son, with his loveless, arrogant attitude, hurt the father more.  We see the father pleading with his elder son!

People get lost for various reasons. 

Some are born into families with no knowledge of the Saviour.  Some are lost due to the flawed lives of the people around them.  Some willfully choose to deny Christ.  Whatever the reason, our heavenly Father actively seeks them and awaits their return.  Our heavenly Father forgives us because of the supreme sacrifice of Jesus, our Saviour.  And there is much rejoicing in heaven!

No one has to worry about the sins they have committed or about how far they have strayed.  If they sincerely repent and return to the Lord, they will be accepted, for our Saviour is waiting with open arms.  And there will be much joy in heaven.  That is the heart of our Father in heaven.  

My friend, the Bible says, "... the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).  And, "... God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us"(Romans 5:8).  Let us not be like the two sons but return, and be blessed!

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, I have come to Your throne of grace.  Cover me with Your blood and take me under Your wings.  Amen.