Decision:
This week, as I began to think about the words and music from a particular song which I was playing on my piano, I became so aware of many friends and loved ones, who at one time – walked close with God. But today, sadly, for some reason, they don’t!
It’s amazing how many of these folks, who, at some point or other – have experienced an extraordinary encounter with God.
Hum!
Still, I suppose there are always those, for whatever reason, who choose to do their own thing – things contrary to the things pleasing to God.
Who knows why people respond as they do!
Anyhow, as I continued to play the piano, I was reminded of “The Prodigal Son,” also known as “The Lost Son,” which is one of the most familiar parables of Jesus.
This story also happens to be one of my favourites.
Anyway, as we reflect on this story – when the younger son went away, it’s quite easy to believe that the Father probably had an inkling of the let downs, the rebuffs and the harassments his son would inevitably meet.
Nevertheless, the choice was in the hands of His son. Only he could decide whether to go or stay..
The decision was his, and his alone!
Foolhardy as he was, the son just wanted what was rightfully his. His share of the family estate!
Of course, for those who know the story well, we know what happened next. It wasn’t long before the son gleefully took it all, packed his bags, and moved away!
It was almost like he couldn’t get away quick enough!
There, in a distant country, lacking in discipline and control – spending frivolously and unwisely, he took no time in wasting everything he had.
Meanwhile, as the story progressed, we notice that the important characteristic of the Father’s love – was displayed by resolute determination – as He reliably looked and waited for His son to return home.
Friend, please observe, the Father could not coerce His younger son to come home. Only the son could take the first step – to come back to the place where he had been before.
The decision was his, and his alone!
Yet, for the Father, as He eagerly looked from a distance, He was ready, waiting to accept and receive His son with unconditional love – and with great gladness.
Indeed, as we get to the heart of the story here – when the son had reached his lowest point – penniless, hungry, half-starved and without friends – he finally began to think – he would be better off by returning home to his Father.
Quickly and without warning, he came to his senses. The penny dropped!
Somehow, he began to understands something that many have long since understood.
Yep, you’ve guessed it, he began the homeward journey.
Subsequently, when he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced his lost son, and kissed him.
Dear friend, if you’ve been walking far away from God – He is looking and longing for the day when you will return home.
And yes, that’s right! As the Father’s arms are open wide – reaching out to accept and receive you, the celebration awaits.
In truth, if you’re facing hard times right now – they’re small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for you!
So, if your life is empty and in a mess – come back to God today.
Surely, if you’ve ever needed Him – it’s now!
The choice is yours!
Luke 15:12-24