"Returning and Rejoicing"

 N.T.#600 "Returning and Rejoicing"

July 29, 2025 

Luke 15-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

Shall we wrap up chapter 15? Three parables Jesus gave the Pharisees and scribes are here with lessons to learn. Sometimes we are the lost sheep that needs to be found. Yet, there are times we have loved ones who are the lost sheep, straying from God. Other times we are like the woman who lost a piece of silver. She did what she could to find her coin, Other times we need to let God handle the situation, taking our hands off. As for the father with rebellious sons, we have probably been there one time or another with our kids. One turns to riotous living, the other resents the brother. 

However the scenario applies, we have hope in God's love which never fails. We pray for people who are spiritually dead and come to Jesus, thus actually become alive spiritually.  Others are lost in their sin, doubting, straying away, and God shows mercy and they are found, brought back into the fold.  (verse 32)

It is always a heart problem. 

LET IT GROW

It is natural for us to celebrate the homecoming of a loved one, or the repentance of one coming to know Jesus as Savior. The Heavenly Father does. 

It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad; for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (verse 32)

Do we resent God's gracious forgiveness of others whom we consider to be fare worse sinners than ourselves? We have to be careful that we are no better than the Pharisees. Hopefully, we don't refuse to forgive others because we have grown bitter.

Do we give support and encouragement to sinners who returned to God?

Are we the one who needs to do business with God?

He is waiting to receive us with open and loving arms. We should do so to others.

LET IT GO

Rejoice, give thanks, and sing.

May our sorrow be turned to joy.

Let us praise our God who shows us grace and mercy all day long.