LUKE 15
JESUS EXPRESSES GOD’S CONTINUAL PURSUIT OF HIS PEOPLE + THE CELEBRATION OF THEIR RESPONSE
Using the beautiful imagery of a shepherd leaving his ninety-nine sheep to find the one that has gone missing, Jesus tells of God’s continual pursuit of humanity. Just as a shepherd would seek out his missing animal, God desires closeness and relationship with His people. Jesus explains that heaven rejoices for every sinner who repents. Supernatural celebration occurs when we follow Him!
Similarly, Jesus shares another short parable, an example of a lost coin. If a woman loses a silver coin, she will search diligently to find it. Once it is found, she will call out to her friends and neighbors to rejoice. Just as the woman would celebrate the recovered money, the angels rejoice over a sinner who repents. God’s people are of far more value to Him than a silver coin, and He seeks out those who are lost.
In a third parable, Jesus tells a story of a man with two sons. The younger son wanted his inheritance early. The father divided the inheritance between the two sons, giving them each their share. The younger son took all that he had and left, traveling far away and living recklessly with his inheritance. The younger son squandered everything he had, wasting what he was generously given.
Desperate during a famine, the younger son was hired to help feed animals in a field. Impoverished and alone, he became so hungry that he envied the slop eaten by the pigs. He realized his father’s servants were treated far better and hoped his father would accept him as one of them.
Upon returning home, the younger son repented of his sins toward his father and begged to be accepted as a servant. Instead of being met with anger or disdain, the father welcomed him with acceptance and love. The father called for the best robe to be placed on his back and planned a celebratory meal upon his return. Despite his son’s sin and rebellion, the father welcomed him back and treated him with grace and provision.
The older brother, always responsible and steadfast, grew frustrated and angry at the celebration. He had been faithful, but there was never a feast for him! The father explained that the older son had always been with him, but the younger son’s return was still worth celebrating.
The older brother represents the Pharisees and their judgment and pride. The younger brother represents sinners who repent and turn toward Jesus. This parable, known as the prodigal son, highlights God’s constant love for His children and the rejoicing that occurs upon their return.
