Forgiveness is Uncomfortable, But Important Just the Same

Today’s reading: Ezekiel 36:24-28

Today at my church the pastor’s sermon was based on the famous story of The Prodigal Son. I’ve long thought of that story as my very favorite in the Bible, and it was interesting to hear several of my friends say it’s always been their least favorite. Their comments reminded me that I have not always been so fond of the tale myself.

I suppose it is an acquired taste.

Forgiveness, it seems, is not a natural trait for humanity, so it stands to reason that many people would see injustice in this story. In fact, I think an entrepreneur might find a healthy market for, say, t-shirts and bumper stickers donning slogans like “The other son was right. Let’s fry that prodigious jerk!”

I was glad to return home to The Upper Room this afternoon and find today’s reading reminding me that I, too, am a prodigal son. How many times has God fulfilled his promise of these lines to me (and all of us): “I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Verse 26)

He’s done it for me countless times, though I never deserved even the first new heart.

I am thankful for the spiritual maturity that has brought me to love the story of the Prodigal Son, and I vow to continue loving all the prodigal people in my life — including those who are uncomfortable with the forgiveness on display toward the Prodigal  Son.

My thanks are eternally due to God for His offering me this same great love.