Prodigal Father

June 15, 2020 Monday Message:

Jesus speaking, concluding the parable of the Prodigal Son: “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.” Luke 15:20 NLT

The ultimate “repent and return” story has to be the Prodigal Son. This foolish son disrespected his father by asking for his share of the inheritance while the father was still alive. Then he abandoned the family business, went to the big city and squandered a fortune on wine, women and song.

When the money ran out, he was forced to accept employment tending pigs, unclean, un-kosher animals. He had reached his ‘bottom,’ realizing that the staff back home lived far better than he. Perhaps if he confessed his errant ways, his father would allow him to return as one of the servants.

The son returned home to do just that - and surprise! – the father saw him while he was still a long way off! Apparently the father had been watching for him, waiting for him, hoping against all odds that the son would come to his senses and return. The father never gave up on this rebellious, wayward kid. He wrapped him in a fine robe, put the family crest back on his finger, and invited everyone. “Let’s have a bar-b-cue and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found!”

This parable is about “repent and return,” but it’s every bit as much about the unconditional agape love the father has for each of his children. There is no sin so great that it cannot be forgiven, and God is in the ‘second-chance’ business. He wants to include everyone!

I’ll be teaching Jesus calming the storm, Luke 8:22-25 on our Facebook Live Stream Wednesday 7pm. See you there!

God’s blessings on you - stay safe!

Norton Lawellin, Worship Pastor

Jesus in the City Fellowship.

3249 30th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406