LUKE 15:1-32

In the case of the sheep, the coin and the son, we find a common theme.  Namely, each had a proper place.  The sheep belonged to the flock, the coin in the widow’s possession and the son in the household of his father.  Then, each departed.

Jesus taught these three parables in response to the accusation that He associated with “sinners”.  Their proper place was in the Hebrew fellowship of the synagogue and temple.  They were bound together by the blood in their veins and the blood that flowed in the temple sacrifices.  In the eyes of the Pharisees they were lost for good.

Jesus agreed that these “sinners” were lost.  He simply knew they were not necessarily lost for good.  With Jesus there is hope.  As long as a person still breathes, there is hope.  When the sheep was returned to the flock, there was great rejoicing.  When the coin returned to the widow’s hand, there was great rejoicing.  When the son returned home, the father rejoiced.

People are created in the image of God, and by the blood of the cross and our repentance – change of mind from disobedience to obedience – a sinner can return to fellowship with his Creator.  Fellowship with God is simply where we belong.

Unconditional love responds with restoration to the proper fellowship.  A new covering for the filth of former waywardness, a new ring for the heir and new shoes for a true son.  The father slaughtered the fatted calf and prepared a joyous celebration for the return.

Created in the image of God, the Christian is re-created in the likeness of Jesus.  As long as we remain where we belong – submissive in our Father’s house – we abide in the joy of the Father.  Each day we are conformed more into the likeness of Jesus.  Each day there is joy because we have returned to our Father.