Dead and Alive again

The father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
- Luke 15:22-24

When the younger son arrives home, he doesn’t even get to finish his well-rehearsed speech. The father doesn’t even talk to him. While the younger son has been preparing speeches (see yesterday), the father has been keeping watch. He answers his son’s speeches with an embrace and a kiss.

The father showers his dishonorable son with symbols of honor: a robe and a ring and news sandals. He throws a party and the whole house erupts in celebration.

As we prepare for Easter, we join our Heavenly Father’s great celebration. Jesus the son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. All is well and all will be well.

And all around us are men and women who are loved by this same God. He keeps watch for them, eager to see them return home. And when they do, we’re invited to join in the celebration.

Easter Sunday presents a specific opportunity for us as a community. There are few Sundays a year when people are more open to coming with you to church. Perhaps a nudge or an invite from you is all they need to start their journey home to God.

Would you take a moment today to ask God if there’s anyone to whom you need to extend a specific invitation to join you at church on Easter Sunday? Is there anyone you need to be praying would return home to the Father’s house this Sunday?

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