Read Luke 15
Luke 15
opens with the Pharisees and scribes grumbling because Jesus is associating
with sinners and tax collectors. It is in response to this grumbling that Jesus
gives three parables that contain moving descriptions of God’s heart. In the
Parable of the Lost Sheep, the shepherd (a picture of Jesus) leaves 99 sheep to
go looking for one (v 4-6). We are told “there will be more joy in heaven over
one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no
repentance” (v 7). This heavenly joy is also illustrated in the Parable of the
Lost Coin (v 8-10).
The
Parable of the Prodigal Son (v 11-32) is unique to Luke’s gospel. Most
Christians today can identify with the Prodigal Son when he says, “I will get
up and go to my father, and will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against
heaven, and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me
as one of your hired men’ ” (v 18-19). Many believers walk in shame over their
sin. We think we are unworthy to experience intimacy with God. He could never
be proud of us. Maybe He isn’t outwardly angry, but He must be inwardly
disappointed in us. So we relegate ourselves to the place of servants. If only
we could work for God, maybe this would pay back enough of the wrong we’ve done
to allow us access to heaven. How far this is from the truth! As soon as
someone turns to walk toward God, regardless of how much shame and guilt he
carries, God runs toward him! The heavens celebrate! Jesus doesn’t call us to
lives of shame; he calls us to rejoice over our acceptance into God’s family!
Journaling and Prayer
1. Think back over what you’ve just read. What does
it say about God’s heart? Write down anything that comes to mind, no matter how
silly it may seem. Ask God to make it personal – how do these parables apply to
your life? If God rejoiced over the people in the parables, how does He look at
you? Spend some time praising God for what He shows you.
2. Meditate on the reaction of the older son and the
father’s response (v 25-32). Ask God what He wants to speak to you through this
section of the parable.
3. Pray for specific people you know who have walked
away from the Lord. Ask God to show you His heart for them and pray this over
these people. Ask God to call them home and reveal to them that you are never
too sinful to come back to Him.
