Discovery Pathway Classes - Baptism and Spirit-Filled LivingSample

The son said to him, ”Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.“ But the father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.“ So they began to celebrate.

Luke 15:21-24

In the parable of the lost son, the love and value that the father lavishes on his returning son is amazing. In the parable, the son asks for his inheritance money early. He is sending the message that he wishes his father was dead, or at least out of his life completely. The son then squanders the money and wastes it on worldly pleasures. When the son finally comes to his senses, he begins the long journey home with his head down in shame. His only hope is to return as a servant or a slave at the house.

The shocking turn of events comes when the father runs to his son and begins celebrating him as a son! The father values and loves his son so much that he forgives him instantly and immediately begins celebrating that his son has come home! The celebration that took place was legendary. The father pulled out the best food and drink and gave his son the best robe. He was the star of the party! This parable is also a reflection of God’s love for you. God is absolutely crazy about you.

God, our perfect Father in heaven, loves you. He does not see you as a long list of mistakes. He sees you as his child. Have you ever really thought of God as your Father? It may be a hard thing to consider. Your earthly father may not have been a very good one, or maybe not even present. But God is not like your earthly father. You have the greatest Father possible.

Your Heavenly Father is full of love and compassion. When you return to Him, He celebrates you. Not because He has to, but because He wants to! He is crazy about you. His love for you is deeper than the ocean, higher than the mountains, wider than the earth. He will never leave you. He will stand up for you. He will proudly celebrate you. You are His.

After you read the passage in Luke today, have a conversation with your Heavenly Father. Instead of starting your prayer with something formal, try starting your prayer with “Dad,” “Daddy,” “Papa,” or another very personal term from your heart that you choose to call your Heavenly Father.