The Son Who Was Lost Returns - Conclusion of THE LOST SON WAS FOUND

Jesus concludes his illustration  by relating  the father's appeal to his older son: "My son, you have always been with me, and all the things that are mine are yours.  But we just had to celebrate and rejoice for your brother was dead but has come to life; he was lost and has been found." - LUKE 15:31, 32.

Jesus does not reveal what the older son eventually does. However, after Jesus' death and resurrection, "a large crowd of priests began to be obedient to the faith." (Acts 6:7)  That might have included some of the very ones who hear Jesus related this powerful illustration about the son who was lost, Yes, it was possible even for them to come to their senses, repent, and return to God.

From that day forward, Jesus' disciples can and should take to heart any lessons he set out in this fine illustration. An initial lesson is how truly wise it is to remain in the security of God's people, under the care of our Father who loves us and provides  for us, instead of wandering off after tempting pleasures in "a distant country."

Another lesson can is that if any of us  should deviate from God's way, we must humbly return to our Father so as to enjoy his favor again.

Still another lesson can be seen by the contrast between the father's receptive, forgiving spirit and the older brother's resentful, unwelcoming attitude. Clearly, God's servants what to be forgiving and welcoming if one who had strayed truly repents and returns to 'the Father's house.'  Let us rejoice that our brother whoa was dead has come to life and that he who 'was lost has been found.'

Next time: Plan Ahead - Use Practical Wisdom

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