Scripture to Read: Luke 15:25–30
With all the good news of the younger son’s return, then Jesus reveals this in Luke 15:25–30, “Now his older son was in the field, and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be. 27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28 But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him. 29 But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you have never given me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends; 30 but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.’” The older son may have stayed behind to serve his father, but the older son’s heart was still bitter and unforgiving. Remember back in Luke 15:12 that the father gave the inheritance to both sons, not just the younger. The older son not only got his inheritance early, but he enjoyed the love, grace, and mercy of his father every day but was never grateful for it. He was bitter that his father did not cast the younger son out for good. We must be careful never to consider someone unworthy of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness!
Challenge & Application
What was the older brother’s response, and what does it reveal about his heart?
How can we guard our hearts from being too judgmental of others who God loves dearly?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!