LUKE 15:11-31
(V 17) he “came to his senses” and started home.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (v 20). There was a royal celebration. “This son of mine was dead and is alive again,” the father rejoiced (v 24).
In Don Finto’s book, Your People Shall be My People,
The Gentile saga is this story in reverse. The firstborn son, Israel, left home. The younger brother, the Gentiles, stayed with the Father. As far as they were concerned the firstborn was disowned and is now to be regarded as an enemy. The son who remained at home assumed he had supplanted the missing brother in all matters, including the place of intimate fellowship with the Father.
So, if Israel has wandered away for centuries and is finally on the way home, will the Church not be happy?
Are we saying “they had their chance,” “they squandered their inheritance. Now it’s our time. They no longer have any rights in Father’s house.
On the other hand, Father is saying “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate” (v 22-23).
- What do we learn about God from this story?
- What do we learn about people?
- What stands out to you
- How should we respond?
We as the Gentile Church, need to ask ourselves if we need to repent for not looking for Israel to return home.
We want to have the Father’s heart for His prodigal son, Israel.
Let us examine ourselves and pray for Israel to come home this week along with millions of others.
Rick and Ellen's Notes 