Drop Seventy-Seven

Matthew 15:11-12

“And He said, ‘A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the share of the estate that falls to me.” So, he divided his wealth between them” (NASB1995).

At one point or another, each of us has at least heard of the prodigal son. So often, our focus is on the son that left and returned. Recent years there has been a focus on the son who stayed home. Now that we are “empty nesters,” my focus has shifted to the parent. Note that when one made the request for his inheritance, the father “divided his wealth between them”. The father loves them both, just as God loves all of us. The father allows each to choose – just as God allows us each freedom of choice. The father accepts the rebellion of one son, and the “rule following” other son. Both have different perspectives regarding their father. And yet, the father loves them both. The father watches and waits for the prodigal to come home. Which, he does return home – with a servant’s heart. And the “rule following” son that remained at home – resents the father’s welcoming gesture for his brother. After all, he did not realize what we learned in verse 12. The father divided his wealth between the two sons when one requested his inheritance. The son who remained home was checking the boxes to earn – failing to enjoy – what he already had.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving us despite ourselves. Forgive us for the times we fail to recognize Your everlasting love for us and all that we have in You. Cleanse our hearts and shift our focus back to loving and serving you in all that we think say and do.

In the name of Jesus we pray,

AMEN