Saturday 15 June 2013

Fathers day and the Prodigal God

Maybe it is because my father passed away when I was still fairly young, but Fathers day has always been a bit of a religious holiday for me. I cannot help but reflect on what an incredible Father we have in Heaven. Like the way Christmas brings to mind nativity scenes, Fathers day always makes me think of Luke 15.

Most people know it as the story of the prodigal son, for me, it is the story of the prodigal God. The word prodigal itself means "excessive" or "reckless" which certainly reflects the lifestyle of the son who squandered his inheritance, yet it aptly describes the glorious love of our Father as well. The loving Father as portrayed in Jesus' story can be offensive to some, the story starts with Jesus drawing and receiving publicans and sinners to himself (verse 1-3) which did not go down well with the Pharisees. Thus the context of his story was to expose to the self righteous religious authorities (as depicted by the older brother) their hearts as well as reveal the heart of God (as depicted by the Father).

It is indeed a privilege to be called a son of God, and my heart echoes with the Psalmist

They shall abundantly utter the memory of your great goodness, and shall sing of your righteousness.
The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.
All your works shall praise you, O LORD; and your saints shall bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and talk of your power;
To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations.

Psalm 145:7-13

No comments:

Post a Comment