“And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” – Luke 15:31-32
The final word in the famous parable of the Prodigal Son isn’t to or about those far from God. It’s a word to those seemingly near to Him. It’s a word to the compliant son, the Pharisee, or the faithful church-goer. If you’ve been a Christian for awhile, it’s a word to you. It’s a warning to have the heart of God toward those who took a long, painful, circuitous, sinful journey on their way to finally coming to the Lord. Arguably, this is the most important point of the parable…
God has tremendous love for those who’ve rebelled against Him, rejecting Him for the fleeting pleasures of the world. Though they’ve covered themselves in the filth of sin and degradation, God looks forward to the day when they repent of their sins and turn to Him through faith in Jesus Christ. He celebrates that moment and rushes to them with open arms. He welcomes them into His family because He is gracious.
Unfortunately, His people don’t always feel the same way. Those who haven’t fallen into obvious depravity, those who’ve faithfully been attending church for years, can be cold, hard, and judgmental toward those newly restored to God’s family. We can condemn them as they try to join our Bible studies or enter our churches. Why? Because they don’t yet look, dress, talk, or act like “they should”. They still have the raw, rough edges of the world about them. They don’t speak the unique language of Christians. They are precious and beloved by God but may be received coldly by His people.
The point of the parable? Don’t be like that! When you encounter someone who has embraced Jesus, love and embrace them. Your Father in Heaven already has. Your Savior already has. If you’re more eager to question them, doubt them, or judge them than hug them, then you’re the older son Jesus is talking about. Align your heart to God. Love the broken people who come to love Him. Make them welcome in your church or small group. Teach them to follow Jesus without turning up your nose at their shortcomings. #FollowJesus