Text: Luke 15: 20-24
Memory Verse: “And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him”(Luke 15:20).
The lessons to be learnt from the parable of the lost son cannot be Texhausted. Hence, the need for its continuation today. It offers hope for all who long for reconciliation with God, their parents, spouse or friend. This story points to hope (Romans 8:24). It teaches that even when you derail
from God, there is a hope for restoration. Expecting His son, the Father probably daily went to the hill top near his house to pray, hoping for the son’s arrival. In like manner, God is always waiting in expectation for the return of a backsliding soul.
On the day he returned home, the father saw him from a distance, ran to him, hugged and kissed him. They both wept for joy. The years of pain and waiting were over. This story is a clear revelation of the salvation plan of God for man. God, the Father, stands waiting for the time when each sinner will at last realise the need for a lasting and satisfying relationship with Him.
God’s heart bleeds at the sight of His own children living outside of His care, forgetting the great advantages available in His house (Luke 12:32). If only backsliders would know that the Father thinks about them and that He is doing everything to bring them back! Jesus, in Matthew 18:12, expressed the compassion He has for the lost sheep and the extent to which He would go to
get them back. Do we have this same heart? God expects us to reconcile sinners and persuade them to return to Him.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, in any way I have backslidden, please restore me.
2. Father, give me a better understanding of Your will.
