April 12
Luke 15:1-32
When you picture God, what comes to mind? For many, God is like is a stern, old man in the sky. Luke 15 tells us he is nothing like a grumpy old man; instead, he is a God of rejoicing. Does this match how you envision him? Jesus often told a story when he wanted to teach theology. This time Jesus tells three stories to make one point—God is loving toward all and rejoices in those who come near to him. Like a shepherd who finds a lost sheep, God delights in the repentance of sinners and those who are dead becoming alive. Like a woman who finds a lost coin, God is ecstatic when lost people are found. Finally, he is like a father who is willing to foolishly run to his incoming prodigal son. God is not just content with those who are in his family now, but longs for those apart from him to know his embrace.
As we consider these stories, not only are we to see God for who he is, but we are also to participate in his joy. We are not to be like the older brother who views life as enslavement and drudgery. Instead, we are to delight in God and the opportunity we have to draw near to him. Let us be people of joy, who rejoice in God, rejoice in sinners coming to faith, and rejoice in all the good gifts which God has given to us.
Father God, thank you that you are a God who rejoices in me. Help me to be filled with joy and delight in the things in which you delight. Amen.
How are you cultivating a heart that reflects God's love for the lost?
When you picture God, what comes to mind? For many, God is like is a stern, old man in the sky. Luke 15 tells us he is nothing like a grumpy old man; instead, he is a God of rejoicing. Does this match how you envision him? Jesus often told a story when he wanted to teach theology. This time Jesus tells three stories to make one point—God is loving toward all and rejoices in those who come near to him. Like a shepherd who finds a lost sheep, God delights in the repentance of sinners and those who are dead becoming alive. Like a woman who finds a lost coin, God is ecstatic when lost people are found. Finally, he is like a father who is willing to foolishly run to his incoming prodigal son. God is not just content with those who are in his family now, but longs for those apart from him to know his embrace.
As we consider these stories, not only are we to see God for who he is, but we are also to participate in his joy. We are not to be like the older brother who views life as enslavement and drudgery. Instead, we are to delight in God and the opportunity we have to draw near to him. Let us be people of joy, who rejoice in God, rejoice in sinners coming to faith, and rejoice in all the good gifts which God has given to us.
Father God, thank you that you are a God who rejoices in me. Help me to be filled with joy and delight in the things in which you delight. Amen.
How are you cultivating a heart that reflects God's love for the lost?
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