Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters! I hope this day finds you full of joy and peace. Today, we're going to delve into a familiar parable that Jesus shared, one that beautifully illustrates God's unconditional love and the joy of reconciliation – the story of The Prodigal Son.

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As Henri Nouwen once said, "Each day holds a surprise. But only if we expect it can we see, hear, or feel it when it comes to us. Let's not be afraid to receive each day's surprise, whether it comes to us as sorrow or as joy. It will open a new place in our hearts, a place where we can welcome new friends and celebrate more fully our shared humanity." In this spirit, let us open our hearts to receive the surprise that this story of the Prodigal Son has for us today.

Let us pray.

Dear Heavenly Father, guide us as we explore your Word today. Help us understand the depth of your love, the joy of reconciliation, and the lessons you wish us to learn from the story of the Prodigal Son. May our hearts be open to receive your message, and may our lives reflect the love and forgiveness you have shown us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

So, let's dive right in.

God's Unconditional Love

As we delve into the story of the Prodigal Son, the first point that we want to explore is the concept of God's unconditional love. This love, as illustrated in the parable, is not based on merit or worthiness, but is freely given, without reservation, to all of God's children. It's a love that doesn't keep score, doesn't hold grudges, and doesn't withhold itself based on our actions or inactions.

The parable: The younger son, after squandering his inheritance, returns home expecting to be treated as a servant. But instead, his father, who represents God in the story, runs to him, embraces him, and welcomes him back as a son. This is a vivid picture of God's unconditional love. Despite the son's rebellion, his wastefulness, and his disrespect, the father's love for him never waned.

Who it’s for: This love is not just for those who have strayed and returned. It's also for those who have stayed faithful, like the older brother in the story. Even though he was angry and felt overlooked, his father reassured him, saying, "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours." This is a reminder that God's love is not a limited resource that needs to be earned or competed for. It's abundant, freely given, and available to all of us, regardless of our actions or attitudes.

A forgiving love: In the story, the father didn't demand an apology or a repayment plan from the younger son. He didn't even bring up his past mistakes. Instead, he forgave him completely and immediately. This is how God loves us. He doesn't hold our past against us. Instead, He forgives us, wipes our slate clean, and welcomes us back into His loving arms.

A pursuing love: In the parable, the father saw his son from a distance and runs to him. He didn't wait for his son to come to him, but he actively went out to meet him. This is a beautiful picture of how God pursues us with His love. He doesn't wait for us to find our way back to Him, but He actively seeks us out, even when we're far away.

A sacrificial love: In the story, the father gave his son the best robe, a ring, and sandals, and he killed the fattened calf to celebrate his return. These were not just symbols of acceptance and honor, but also of sacrifice. The father was willing to give up his best for his son. This is a reflection of how God demonstrated His love for us by giving up His only Son, Jesus, to die for our sins.

A rejoicing love: In the parable, the father said, "Let's celebrate, for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." This shows that God doesn't just tolerate us or put up with us. He rejoices over us. He celebrates our return, our restoration, and our reconciliation with Him.

The Prodigal Son's Return

The Son prepared a speech, expecting his father's anger and hoping at best to be accepted as a servant ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO