[Discoveries] 10-04-08 The Father who wasn't listening -- Luke 15:22 The Message

[Inspiration in Your Inbox]

/*But the father wasn't listening. -- Luke 15:22 The Message*/

To me, this is one of the most moving moments in all of scripture. The 
prodigal son had ruined his life. He was returning home, a failure for 
all to see. When he met his father, he was begging not for his rights as 
son to be restored -- he knew he could never dare ask for that -- but 
rather that he might be taken on as a hired hand.

But the father wasn't listening.

Eugene Peterson in his paraphrase /The Message/, captures the spirit of 
this verse so well with this phrase: "But the father wasn't listening."

The Father had better plans, and, even today, He has better plans for 
you and for me. "Quick! Bring clean clothes. Bring the family ring. 
Identify this man as My son. Celebrate!"

This is one of those great paradoxes in life. When we begin to see how 
unworthy we are, the Lord begins to show us how much He treasures us. It 
is true that we don't deserve, but all the while we tell the Father 
that, He isn't listening. Instead, He is calling for celebration.

Be encouraged!
Dwight

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