We're taking a look at the story of the Prodigal Son in our weekend messages. Last week was the younger son, this week the older son, and next week the father. So much attention typically is given to the younger son's rebellion and repentance, at least that's how I have always reflected on it. This time is different. We've had lots of discussions about rebellion, legalism, and our church motto of "no perfect people allowed."
You see, both sons in this story were focused on what they could get out of their father, not on their relationship with their father. The younger son asked for his inheritance up front and went off to party like crazy, breaking every rule. The older son continued doing everything "just right" in order to secure his inheritance. And you see the swing of the pendulum between anarchy and legalism, both devoid of what the father really wanted, a relationship.
Both sons would be welcome at Abundant Life. People ask us about the saying "no perfect people allowed" and whether that means we think anything goes. Well, we all tend to have characteristics of each son.
We are asked, "do you even attempt to call people to Christ-like behavior?" And the answer is OF COURSE. The answer is the same as taught in the prodigal son. We don't call people to conform to a certain list of "appropriate behavior" which is simply legalism, nor condone rebellious behavior. We call people to a relationship with Jesus that changes everything, including what we do and why we do it.
We are all on a journey. I pray that each of our journies is moving us ever closer to our Father and a genuine concern for others. And I pray that the swing of the pendulum between anarchy and legalism is drawn closer and closer to a central place of love and realtionship for each of us.
May it be so.
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