The Amazing Nature of God's Grace - Pt. 1

 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:20-24 ESV).

 

Our reading today is from the larger context of what has come to be known as the “Parable of the Prodigal Son” (cf. Luke 15:11-24).  The accompanying picture today reads: “The Prodigal Son. We all know one, have been one, or are waiting for one to come home.” Is there truth in that for you? If the answer is affirmative, then I have some absolutely great news to share. God’s grace really is amazing!

 

I’m not in any way objective in this statement. I believe most of the reason for that lies in the truth that I’ve come to a settled belief that I am one of those “prodigals.” I’ve known many in the other categories as well. My ministry has given me more stories than I care to recount of those who had abandoned their home and family to pursue what they believed was “better.” I’ve wept with those who were left when someone they loved and cherished abandoned them. And, I’ve been privileged to see a lot of homecomings. None of those were any more amazing than my own. That prompts me to begin this little series, The Amazing Nature of God’s Grace.”

 

The prodigal son was a selfish egotist with a “give me, give me” attitude. He demands his inheritance even before his father’s death. Not only does this son shame his father; he also exposes his family to community criticism. He severs his relationship with his brother by forcing a division of the property. Then, far from home, he chooses a wild lifestyle. He squanders his inheritance and goes bankrupt. He feeds pigs and eats their food. As a Jew, he becomes “unclean.” Thus he could no longer participate in Jewish life without extensive repentance. He makes a decision to go home.

 

Surprisingly, though, the father holds no grudges and demands no repayment. Instead of criticizing his son’s failures and examining his motives, the father runs to greet his returning son. In a culture where no self-respecting head of a household would disgrace himself by this undignified action, this father welcomes his son generously. He halts his son’s speech of repentance and instead places a ring on his finger, symbolizing authority within the family. He wraps his son in a ceremonial robe, offering instant cleanliness. And he kills the fattened calf to celebrate.

 

It is a story of the remarkable grace, unending compassion, incredible love that our Father in heaven shows for you and me! It is Amazing!