Christ came to reveal to us the heart of His Father and the great love the Father has for us. The parable of the prodigal son shouts of the love and mercy our God has for each one of us, His children. Papa’s love for us is so deep that when we leave His side, He is constantly looking for us while He waits for our return. And if He happens to catch sight of us, He is off and running to kiss us, and hold us close to His heart once again.
Papa’s heart breaks so often these days, with so much indifference from His children. He is forgotten and ignored like a worthless old shoe that is out of date. Believing in God is not in vogue for some. It was something they believed as a child, but no, not now.
Others of us may believe in God, but live lives that are so busy that He is not thought about very often, except of course, when a need arises. When the crisis has passed, whether it's a want or a need, God is once again placed on the back burner.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life” (John 3 vs. 16).
Papa loved us so very much that He sent Jesus to die for us, so we may be with Him in heaven one day. Do we really “get” that? Do we really realize the Father’s great love for us? Do we want to love Him as He so deserves with ALL our heart, mind and soul? Does each thought relay that? Does each action we perform show it? Does His love rule our lives or is-- I, me, mine -- our focus? Do we ever think about the Father? Are we one with Him as Christ is?
It is clear from the parable of the lost son that the Father was out looking for his son. Go – spend time with Papa on His front porch, as He stands and peers off into the distance, for His lost sons and daughters. Tell Him how much you love Him. Fast and make sacrifices for His children, our brothers and sisters in Christ, who have strayed from the Fathers presence. Soothe the Father’s broken heart until all of His children have returned to Him. And listen with great joy as He utters the words, “Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fatted calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found” (Lk. 16 vs.22-24).
What excellent advice Avia Joy! There is nothing I would enjoy more than to hang out with the Father on His front porch and see the joy on His face as our loved ones come back into the fold!!!!
ReplyDeleteI would certainly love to join you on that porch. Rocking in a rocking chair, listening to the Wisdom of Papa. Waiting for more to come and jumping for joy when we see those we love arrive.
ReplyDeleteMeeting those we helped by our actions and prayers, what a delightful scene!