‘…[My] son…was lost, and is found…’ LUKE 15:24 (NIV)
After telling the story of the lost sheep and the lost silver coin, Jesus ends up by telling us the story of the lost son. The interesting thing about him is that he knew he was lost, and knew his way home. The shepherd sought the lost sheep, the lady with the lamp sought the lost silver, but nobody went looking for the lost son. Only when he had squandered his inheritance and ended up in a pigpen do we read: ‘When he came to his senses, he said… “I will…go back to my father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned…’’ But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him…the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was…lost and is found…’’ (vv.17-24 NIV). Backslider, though you have walked away from God, He is waiting to welcome you home. Your place at the table is reserved. He has a ring of sonship that identifies you as His own, and a robe of righteousness to cover your shame. The Prodigal Son’s joy didn’t return until he came back to his father’s house. So, you have a decision to make. Though you’re disappointed in yourself and ashamed before the God you’ve failed, you can come back home. And you can come today.
Bible In A Year: 1 Chr 16-18, John 9:13-23, Ps 105:1-15
