"And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore his father came
out and entreated him (to come in)." Luke 15:28
With the advent of the holiday season I find myself drawn more and more to the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) and the love the father showed both sons. Even though the younger son left home and squandered his fortune, he didn't wait for him to crawl back begging for forgiveness. He ran out to meet him.
When the older son who stayed home was angry, the father, in his joy that his younger son who had been lost but was now found, could have easily ignored him; but like with the prodigal brother, he went out to him, inviting him to come inside and enjoy the festivities.
The holiday season is a time for reconciliation and forgiveness, for putting aside differences. Is there a friend or family member who, out of pride or unforgiveness, remains standing outside refusing to come in? Why not extend to him or her the gift of grace and hospitality.
Sitting at His feet,
Valarie
