THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 15:25-32
“I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders.” (Luke 15:29)
This chapter begins with the muttering of the religious leaders.
Jesus is intentionally speaking to them through this older son.
The older son represents the ‘already saved’ who’ve forgotten God’s grace.
How many christians feel that following Jesus is a duty, not a delight.
They perform their duties, but not with the heart of joy or gratitude.
They make it hard for others ‘less holy’ to be welcomed in the church.
They insist new believers should become ‘slaves’ like them, doing their duty.
This kind of christianity is not a joy, it is a burden.
This parable should probably better be called ‘the prodigal sons’.
Out of both sons, which one ended up closer to the father?
I’ve seen this, that converted sinners often make the most dynamic believers.
They know what grace means, they know that their belonging is 100% a gift.
How aware am I of God’s grace, that I am no better than other prodigals?
Is my work for God more duty than delight, a going through the motions?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I’ve been ‘home’ all my life, but not always at home with You in my heart. Help me not take Your loving grace for granted, and to delight in working with You!