Reception at home

Jesus explained many spiritual truths by using ordinary life stories called the 'parables'. These are simple stories in life that reveal just enough truth to raise intense curiosity, promising more for interested listeners. These are to be studied in context of the life of Jesus. The parable of the 'prodigal son' is one of the most well known among them (Luke 15). It is about a sweet home where a kind and wealthy father lived with his two sons. The younger son claimed his inheritance and ran off to a far away place. He eventually returned after squandering his money and life. His father received him back as a son restoring his full inheritance.

The son's rejection of the home led to destruction and despair in his life. His remembrance of the home led to his repentance and return. The father rejoices at the return of his son. Having another son at home does not fill the void. Heaven is incomplete with one soul missing. It is like one key missing on a piano. Each of us is valuable for the kingdom of God. “There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:9,10). "I take no pleasure in the death of the sinners, but rather that they turn from their ways and live." (Ezekiel 33:11). The father does not compromise his convictions by receiving and accepting his son back. Jesus does not comdemn the sinner nor does He condone sin. He is always being compassionate.

The father put on the son a robe, a ring, sandals and prepared a big dinner. God clothes those who repent of their sins with the garment of righteousness. It is a robe of forgiveness that removes the filthy rags of human works and covers our sin and shame with love and grace (Isaiah 61:10). The robe is also a demonstration of God’s love and protection covering his children in times of trials and troubles.

The ring is the sign of covenant of restoration. It is an eternal covenant that cannot be broken by any external force. Paul declares, "I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38). The ring symbolizes the authority of being a child of God through the name of Jesus. It symbolizes the strength given to us through the Holy Spirit to overcome temptation and sin. The ring is also a promise that our heavenly father will answer our prayers and meet all our needs.

The father put sandals on his son’s feet symbolizing a new beginning and a new direction. The new shoes are the sign of a jew journey. The past is gone and the future is here. It gives the hope of a brighter future. “I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.“ (Jer 29:11). There are a lot of sons and daughters who are away from God and church, with broken hearts, damaged emotions, and with crushed spirits. Many are suffering with wounded bodies and shattered souls. God's love and compassion will restore them to fullness. “He will not break a bruised reed, and he will not snuff out a smoldering wick. In faithfulness He will bring forth justice” (Isaiah 42:3).

Blessings

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