Luke 15:25-32 KJV
[25] Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. [26] And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. [27] And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. [28] And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him. [29] And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: [30] but as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. [31] And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. [32] It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
I had a thought, the other day… In truth, I was complaining to God: That’s not fair… This and this was done, said, etc…
And immediately, I felt like I was on the outside, angry as I listened to the joyous celebration.
When I wanted to ask God, Why? He answered before I could even say the word. That’s just the way I am. Just as you are a recipient of my love, forgiveness, grace, mercy – so is he.
I had the thought, But, he doesn’t deserve it.
And I realized, neither do I.
That’s exactly what God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, and love do for us. And, on the flip side, that’s what we should also do for others.
I had to repent for my self-righteousness. Truth is, we all fall short. We are all recipients of God’s love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness. And as He loved us and sent His Son, Jesus, to take on our sin and die in our place, we also ought to love, forgive, grant mercy and grace on others.
*Original image courtesy of J.E.B🤍☀️🌸
On the Outside Looking In 