Come to Jesus

Bible Reading: Luke 15:11–24

 

The story of Luke 15 is actually not about the sons but about the Father.

 

The younger son left home and journeyed to a far country. Eventually he found himself feeding pigs, a sign that he had reached the lowest point. Yet while the son forgot his father, the father never forgot his son.

 

When the son demanded his inheritance, the father did not argue. He let him go. Love does not force. But neither did the father lose hope. Day after day he must have looked down the road. The Bible says, "While he was still far off, his father saw him" (Luke 15:20). He recognised the silhouette. His eyes had been watching, and his heart had been waiting.

 

One of the most beautiful words in the story is "quickly." The father said, "Quickly, bring out a robe, the best one, and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet" (Luke 15:22). There was no interrogation, no probation period, no shame. Only full acceptance. Just as he was. A new beginning. Grace triumphed over guilt.

 

On this Father's Day, perhaps God is asking us some questions.

 

Is there a father or mother to whom you have not spoken for a long time? If possible, speak today. My father has gone to be with the Lord and I cannot speak to him now, even if I wanted to.  Is there a son, daughter, father, brother or friend whom you need to forgive? Make it right today. God has forgiven us much, and He calls us to forgive others.  Is there a wayward child far from God and family? Never lose hope. Never stop praying. The Father in Luke 15 teaches us that God is always at work, even when we cannot see it.

 

Our Heavenly Father is the only perfect Father, and yet He has the most wayward children. Still, His arms remain open. He invites us to come to him, to find rest, and receive His grace.  We can find rest and peace when we forgive others.  We can find rest and peace when we try our best to mend broken relationships.  We can find rest and peace when we trust Jesus with all our heart and mind.

 

My friend, come to Jesus and be blessed. The Father is watching, waiting, and ready to welcome us with open arms.

 

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and patience. Thank You that You never give up on Your children. Help us to forgive as You have forgiven us, to hope when loved ones wander, and to trust Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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