He was lost, but now he is found”         

 Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32v 24” For this son of mine was dead and now has returned to life. He was lost but now is found, so the party began”

Jesus often told stories to help understand God and our relationship with Him, known as parables. Here the parable of the lost or prodigal son tells of two sons. One son takes his inheritance, spends all his money and is starving, them comes repentant back to the father. The father runs out to greet him and celebrates his return with a big feast. The son who has stayed at home is angry as he has never had a celebration. But the father justifies his celebration.” For this son of mine was dead and now has returned to life. He was lost but now is found, so the party began”

Up until recently I have always found this difficult as I identified with the son who stayed by the side of the Father. However, recently I am more aware of the father’s point of view. Focusing on the “good” deeds of the son who stayed home, worked hard, or on the “bad” deeds of the son who recklessly spent all his money is not the point of the story. It is about the forgiveness that the father offers, the comfort and support he provides for those who stay close to him. Good things done with a bad attitude is not celebrated. Coming back however lost you are repentant and ready to serve is welcomed. God asks us to humbly serve him and I think that is the attitude lacking in the son who stayed. Jesus constantly says “all are welcome” and anyone who turns to the Father repentant and ready to serve is celebrated. So the party began!

 Lent: Kneel before God and pray