The Lost Son – The Father

Scripture: Luke 15:11-32

20 “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ 22 “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. 23 And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, 24 for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began….31 “His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. 32 We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’ ” (Luke 15:20-24, 31-32 NLT)

The father had grieved for a long time and watched daily down the road for his son to come home. He had been a gracious father and had given his younger son his inheritance even though the demand was kind of like, “Dad, I wish you were dead!” He never stopped loving his son and was full of love and compassion, running to him, embracing him, and welcoming him home. He completely ignored his son’s prepared speech – “I have sinned against you, I’m not worthy to be your son!” and lavished care and honor on the half-dead wretch! He got a party going and things were really rockin’-feasting, laughter, and dancing! No reprimand over the wasted fortune.

The father showed his love for his wayward son through his grace and mercy and joy and celebration over his safe return.

The father had relied on his older son to keep things going, to work hard, to manage the estate and the house and agricultural staff day after day. His son was up early organizing the work, he was diligent to think things through and plan wisely. He worked hard, worked long and caused the estate to prosper. The father trusted his son and relied on him. It kept him from being completely overcome by his grief.

The father showed his love for his older son by giving him responsibility and trusting him. He said, “Dear son, you and I are very close and everything I have is yours!”  I want to finish my life with the father attitude!

Prayer:

Father, Thank you for mercy and compassion, thank you for responsibility and trust. I want to learn to love the way you love. For Jesus’ Sake, Amen!