The Character of the Father

One of the things that I tried to get across to my youth when I was a youth pastor was that no matter what story you look at in the Bible the hero is always God. Regardless of what part of Scripture you are looking at, from Abraham to Moses to Joshua to David and all through the New Testament, He is the one who is to receive all of the glory and praise and honour because He is at the centre of everything. And it’s no different in the parable of the Prodigal Son. The Father, who represents our Heavenly Father, is the hero in the story. He is the generous giver, He is the one full of grace and love, He is patient and kind, and full of joy. He also has the strength to not use His power to control His sons, but to allow them their freedom.

While we are not God, nor will we ever be, we are still called to play the role of the Father in how we act towards others. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, sums it up this way:

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.  In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:9-21.

And when we fall short of doing everything in this list, there is grace, forgiveness, and restoration — all we need to do is come home and receive it. Our gathering is at 6pm on Sunday, hope to see you there.

Pastor Mike