The Loving Father, The Lost Son, and The Older Brother

This is a passage that is so familiar with us but that gives us some many great reflection points. It is so important not to just fast forward thru this story and say, “yeah, yeah, yeah” I know this story. I would really hope that each time you read this, you are challenged by what Jesus was saying through this story. It is so rich and meaning and application for each of us. I want you to do something for me. Read this passage three times, each concentrating on the different perspectives of a different character from the story.

So first, read the story as if you were the father – now Read Luke 15:11-32
Can you see the pain of loving your son so much and then having him take advantage of our love and provision? Can you see what it means that you are overjoyed to see your son return more than the feeling of the son betraying you and leaving you? Do you believe in a God that gives this kind of love and grace? Understand this, God loves you and wants to shower mercy and grace as your return to Him. Rest in His grace.
So second, read the story as if you were the young son – now Read Luke 15:11-24
Are you taking for granted the love of your heavenly Father? Are you living in a way that is running away from God? Lastly, are you so ashamed of what you have done or are doing that you feel like you can’t return to the Father? Understand this, God loves you and wants you to return to Him. Rest in His grace.
So third, read the story as if you were the older son – now Read Luke 15:25-32
Is your walk with God run by duty and chore? Do you feel like you have always been “faithful” and wonder where your “party” is? Spend some time reflecting if you would rejoice if your brother returned home or not? Take some time to examine your walk with God. Understand this, God loves you and wants you to return to Him. Rest in His grace.

God is love! God is full or mercy and grace. Let this reign true in you.

For your viewing enjoyment you can watch the video I made with Emmaus (my son) and Ethan (my nephew) Prodigal Emmaus