Where is the Hope when you’ve done something wrong?
Believing Jesus died to pay for all I’ve done wrong.
and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
When we delve into the topic of forgiveness, it's essential to revisit the timeless parable of the prodigal son. This story holds profound lessons for us, especially in understanding forgiveness and reconciliation.
In the parable, we encounter two distinct responses to forgiveness: that of the father and that of the elder brother. The father's response exemplifies unconditional love and extravagant grace. Despite his son's reckless behavior and squandering of his inheritance, the father eagerly welcomes him back with open arms, celebrating his return with a lavish feast. This portrayal reminds us of God's boundless mercy and willingness to forgive, no matter how far we may have strayed.
On the other hand, we see the elder brother's response, which stands in stark contrast to the father's. He reacts with resentment and bitterness towards his wayward sibling, refusing to join in the celebration. Instead of embracing forgiveness and reconciliation, he harbors a sense of self-righteousness and entitlement, highlighting the dangers of pride and unforgiveness.
As we reflect on the parable of the prodigal son, let us examine our own hearts and responses to forgiveness. Are we quick to extend grace and mercy, following the example of the loving father? Or do we struggle with feelings of resentment and self-righteousness, like the elder brother?
Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal Son
And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” ’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.
“Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 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.’ ”
Bible Memory
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come. Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
