In his book "Son", John Sheasby describes the journey in his Christian walk from feeling like a slave that is required to serve to feeling like he is a son and joyful heir of God's abundant blessings. In his book he talks about the parable of The Prodigal Son. It's a familiar and beloved Bible story that paints a vivid picture of God's compassion, unconditional love, and unmerited favor.
I was that eldest son, squandering away my rich inheritance from God on alchohol, drugs, sex, anything numbing. When I got miserable enough in that lifestyle to hit rock bottom, I decided that I did, after all, want what my parents had and what I had run so hard and fast away from-a relationship with God, a church family to belong to, Christian friends.
I started the long walk back to God, thinking that if I just did enough good things, then He would forgive me and we could have the relationship I longed for. I strived hard to be good, never saying "no" when asked, performing as well as I could, never feeling like I had done enough. It was exhausting and no better way to live than when I was on the run.
Just recently, I have come to my senses. God has welcomed me with His open arms and His abundant grace. He has shown me that there are no conditions on His love, and no condemnation. He has shown me that there is nothing I have to do to win His love, only believe. He has shown me that when His son, Jesus Christ, shed His blood on the cross for me, that I was declared innocent.
The more I accept this free gift of grace, the closer to God I become. I am a part of His family and as such, am heir to all His earthly and heavenly blessings. I am not a servant who has to work hard to please his master. I am a beloved child of God and I can feel His hug.
"When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, "At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger". So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him", Luke 16:17, 20. NLT
Peggy you always give me encouragement, thank you.
ReplyDeletePeggy, I have been that prodigal as well; I did my wandering years with two young sons in tow. It was a devastating time of self-reliance and pain. When I finally arrived at my senses, I came home to my family and back to God. I love him so much; I have been forgiven much! Walk in your freedom, sister.
ReplyDeletepeace~elaine