Come On Home: A Journey of Redemption and Grace
Welcome to church once again this morning! It’s a joy to see all of you here, looking fantastic as always. I hope the music touched your hearts and stirred your spirits. Today, we’re diving into a topic that resonates deeply: homecoming. For many of us, homecoming brings back memories of special gatherings, family, and the warmth of belonging.
Homecoming: A Personal Reflection
Growing up in the foothills of Western North Carolina, I experienced a unique tradition known as homecoming at our little Baptist church. It wasn’t just any Sunday; it was the third Sunday of May—a day filled with excitement, special music, and a message that brought everyone together. But let’s be real, what everyone was really waiting for was the fellowship hall. Everyone knew that the best part was downstairs, where the casseroles and desserts awaited. That was the essence of homecoming.
The Prodigal Son: A Story of Choices
Today, we’re exploring the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Luke chapter fifteen. This story illustrates profound truths about our relationship with God. It begins with a young man who, tired of his father’s rules, demands his inheritance early. Essentially, he tells his father, “You’re dead to me; give me my money.” The father, though heartbroken, grants the request, and the son leaves home to pursue a life of wild living.
The Reality of Rebellion
As the young man indulges in his newfound freedom, he quickly squanders his wealth and finds himself in dire circumstances—a famine hits, leaving him broke and desperate. He ends up working in a pigpen, a humiliating job for a Jewish boy, and realizes that even his father’s hired hands have more than enough to eat. In that moment of clarity, he decides to return home, not as a son, but as a servant.
The Power of Change
When you change your mind, you give yourself a chance. The young man’s decision to return home marks a turning point. He acknowledges his mistakes and prepares to face his father, not expecting a warm welcome, but hoping for mercy. This act of humility is crucial; it’s the first step toward redemption.
The Heart of the Father
As the son approaches home, the father sees him from a distance. His heart fills with compassion, and he runs to meet his son—a shocking act for a man of his stature. He embraces him and showers him with love, ignoring the son’s rehearsed apology. This is a beautiful depiction of God’s grace. God doesn’t wait for us to be perfect; He meets us where we are, filled with love and mercy.
Understanding Grace
Your level of rebellion does not dictate His level of grace. The father doesn’t scold the son; instead, he orders a celebration, declaring, “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” This is the heart of our God—celebrating our return, no matter how far we’ve strayed.
The Older Brother: A Different Kind of Lost
But the story doesn’t end there. The older brother, who has remained faithful, hears the celebration and becomes angry. He confronts his father, feeling overlooked and unappreciated. This reveals another layer of the story: pride can blind us to the grace we’ve received and the grace others need.
Lessons in Humility
Pride convinces us that we are more worthy than others. The older brother’s resentment reflects a heart that has grown cold. He sees his brother’s mistakes but fails to recognize his own need for grace. This serves as a reminder that we must guard against becoming like the older brother, focusing solely on our own righteousness while neglecting to extend love and compassion to those who are lost.
God’s Love for All
The father’s response to the older brother is filled with wisdom and love. He reminds him that everything he has is also his. The father’s love encompasses both sons—the one who strayed and the one who stayed. God’s love is not contingent on our performance; it’s a free gift offered to all.
Invitation to Homecoming
As we reflect on this parable, I invite you to consider your own journey. Are you like the prodigal son, feeling lost and hopeless, or like the older brother, struggling with pride? God is calling you to come home. He desires a relationship with you, free from judgment and full of grace.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Today, make a decision to change. Whether it’s returning to God after a time of wandering or softening your heart to those around you, take that step. Remember, the father is waiting with open arms, ready to welcome you back home.
FAQ
- What does the Prodigal Son represent? The Prodigal Son symbolizes anyone who strays from God and seeks fulfillment outside of His will.
- How does the father’s reaction reflect God’s love? The father’s unconditional love and compassion for his son illustrate God’s grace and readiness to forgive us, no matter our past.
- What can we learn from the older brother? The older brother teaches us about the dangers of pride and the importance of extending grace to others, regardless of their past mistakes.
- How can I return to God if I feel lost? Acknowledge your need for Him, make a decision to turn back, and trust in His loving embrace waiting for you.
Thank you for joining us today. Let’s continue to worship and celebrate the incredible grace of our God!