“For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” Luke 15:24

It is never too late to make a fresh start with God. The familiar analogy of the Prodigal Son reminds us of God’s amazing grace to bring reconciliation to the lost. The term prodigal is defined as one who spends his inheritance or funds on extravagant living.

Luke chapter fifteen gives us a detailed account of a young man who demands his portion of inheritance from his father. The father granted the son’s wish. The problem was not in asking but for his portion… but in the way he chose to live and use the substance given to him from the father. We must remember that we will all give an account for the way we use the treasures, talents and gifts that our Heavenly Father has so freely given to us.“For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48b

It was the beginning of a tough lesson for the son . . . he fell on really hard times when his funds ran out, things became so hard that he found himself eating the husk that was given to the swine-he couldn’t possibly get lower! It is often said that the grass always looks greener on the other side, what appeared like a glorious lifestyle was now his worst nightmare- he had fallen for the age old lie from the enemy!

Satan is still setting the sin-trap for all who will fall privy to His lies- he camouflages those things that will destroy us and make them seem desirous and that which would could not possible live without. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” 1 John 2:16.

God knows each of His beloved children and He has no respect of persons, He lovingly gives to all men a free will to make our own choices. Yet, praise God that nothing will happen to us outside of His permissive will-He is all about our spiritual growth and development.  So, He sends us test in life that will grow, strengthen and always point us back to our faith and dependence in His love and faithfulness.

Yes, if you know the account…the prodigal son finally came to his senses, recognizing  that even his father’s servants were treated better than his current state of shame and loss… so, he decided to return home as a hired servant; the account takes a wonderful turn as he arrives home, his father was watching and waiting! “And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”  That day, the father sent for the servants to welcome his son back home with full privileges of a beloved child!

Reconciliation always brings joy in Heaven-“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”  Luke 15:7.  God’s amazing grace provides His best for all those who humbly come seeking Him for salvation and restoration. God is gracious and longsuffering towards us all!

It is inevitable that we will certainly mess-up, and fall to the wayside of life; but we have this blessed assurance, that our Heavenly Father is watching and waiting to welcome us back home!“For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” Luke 15:24. 

God blessings of peace and His amazing grace be with you all!