“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20 NIV
It does not take long after coming home after a long day to feel uplifted when your dog sees you come through the front door and welcomes you with unbridled excitement. Famous has always given me that lift, especially if I have been away for more than a day. I was reminded once again of the parable of the prodigal son. Thinking he had better things to do, he left what was familiar, and he took for granted the love that had been bestowed upon him freely.
Famous offers me no retribution, no revenge, no cold shoulder when I arrive home after leaving him. There is just the joy of the reunion. But we should look closer at the story and not assume we are always portrayed as the lost son. Henri J. Nouwen wrote a beautiful description of the different roles this lesson portrays: the role of the loving, forgiving father; the role of the obstinate and foolish son; and the role of the older envious brother who had not disgraced his father. Nouwen wrote that we find ourselves in all of these roles at one time or another. Our goal each day should be to receive God’s grace so that we are neither foolish, nor haughty, but compassionate and joyful like the father (and Famous) towards others.
Show me the wonders of Your love and help me receive them with joy today!
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