Locations & Times

Read: Luke 15:11-32; Isaiah 43:4
“Because you are precious in my eyes and honored and I love you ...,” Isaiah 43:4.

The final story Jesus told in Luke chapter 15 Jesus reminds us who the perfect father is and who we are to him. Jesus told everyone listening about the lost and wayward son, demanding and sinful, who took advantage of his father’s love and generosity while choosing to recklessly pursue his own happiness. When the son returned, the father was forgiving because he treasured his son. So God is with us. Like the son, we are broken and disobedient, but this story demonstrates God the Father’s grace towards us, love for us, and joy because of us. No matter what we do, he is ready for us to return to him.

The Japanese have an art form called Kintsugi, also known as golden joinery, in which they take broken or cracked pottery and repair it with gold or silver. This method of repairing the pottery not only showcases the history of the piece but also takes what was broken and transforms it into something even more valuable than before. This art, and the story of the prodigal son, reminds us that God takes our life; our mistakes, brokenness, and sin, and redeems us, restoring us to something even more beautiful. Full of grace and truth, he showcases his perfection through our imperfection.

The father didn’t just forgive his son, he threw a party! Can you think of a time you rejoiced in the forgiveness you found in Christ?

How have you seen Jesus restore you after you chose to run the opposite direction?

Think of something in your life that is precious to you. Reflect on how much more God treasures you.