| Grace
Who has not heard the parable of the prodigal son, I doubt there are not many. It seems it is a ‘nice’ story’ But is that all?
There is not much good news reported about in the media – so how lovely to have something with a happy ending.
But I was challenged by a question I read whilst looking at this parable, in fact I read the challenge twice in different places.
- The question: What does the parable of the prodigal son mean to you?
We don’t like to be challenged in our thinking – it means we must look beyond, deeper than the surface understanding we have of something. But God does it in such a beautiful way that re-sets our understanding and takes us on a different path.
Whilst Jesus was here on earth He set about introducing mankind to His Kingdom – a totally different world. It seemed everything He taught was upside down and didn’t make sense to so many people. It is still the same for us today.
The younger son was really pushing the boundaries in asking for his inheritance up front. But his gracious father gave him his request – it seems without stipulation.
Choices, we all have choices, and the prodigal son made some really bad decisions, (what about us, I know I have over the years). So much so that he lost everything – his riotous living, working with pigs, wow – were so far removed from his Jewish faith – his reputation in his own eyes and no doubt in the eyes of others, was at rock bottom.
Eventually he came to his senses – he recognised his state and how far out of line he was – he felt totally unworthy of being his father’s son, but it seems just to be closer to him and work for him would be sufficient.
Jesus didn’t just tell ‘nice’ stories – He showed us a different way to live -The prodigal son parable is a wonderful account of a father’s love, mercy, compassion and forgiveness, and restoration.
It’s a truth about our Father God’s grace, love, mercy, compassion and forgiveness that He extends towards us when we recognise our need for Him.
The prodigal son parable has put my thinking regarding an issue I have been recently challenged with, on a different trajectory.
I thank God for all He has and continues to do in my life, the changes He has made, the opportunities He has given me, thank you Lord.
The question I am leaving us with this month:
- What does the parable of the prodigal son mean to you?
Love and blessings
Barbara x
Scripture readings: Luke 15:11-32, Jeremiah 3:22
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