God, Our Loving Father (Part 1)

The story above is one of my favorite parables in the Bible. I say this because it deals with a dynamic relationship between a father and his two sons. It is usually titled in reference to the prodigal son but it could just as well have been titled in reference to the father.
The father shows unwavering love, patience and forgiveness toward his sons, particularly to his prodigal son. He is faithful. He longs for his sons return and does not condemn but rejoices upon his return. The father is a reflection of our Heavenly Father and the sons mirror both the unsaved (prodigal son) and the saved (older son).
I believe Jesus is telling us that our Heavenly Father yearns for a deep and lasting love-relationship with us. He doesn’t need our love, our relationship, but it’s almost as if He’s modeling the reality of how much we need His. Furthermore, He doesn’t excuse our sin and rebellion, but they seem far removed compared to His redeeming grace. So, as we read this story, maybe we should consider a different point of view; a father’s perspective. It may give us a greater appreciation of our Heavenly Father and His incredible mercy and grace. - JSS