Tuesday, March 18, 2008

A Tale Of Two Sons



My all time favorite passage of scripture comes from Luke 15. Of course we know it as the parable of the "prodigal son." Through the years I've always been amazed with what the prodigal son did. Also what he said he would do. He said he would return to his father and say "I have sinned against heaven and before you and I'm no longer worthy to be called your son." When the prodigal met up with the father, he said exactly that. The prodigal was serious about coming home to the father. There have been times that I have been so choked up by reading these words. For, I, too, at times, have been a prodigal. I'm so glad that the father was looking for me.

I'm reminded of the Benny Hester song, "When God Ran." It's probably the only time in scripture where is shows the father running to greet us. What a picture in itself. That God the father loves us so much that he would run to us!

Conversely, I think of the elder son. Bitter, cold, aloof and distant as the prodigal comes home. I always thought that the brother would have been happy that his sibling came home. Nada, no, zilch. He was self-righteous. I just cannot believe that the eldest would stand there and act that way.

I'm happy that this new book by John MacArthur has come into print. Sure, we could say, "Oh another book on the prodigal son." However, this book has a twist to it. One that I didn't see coming at all. John really hits home in this new release. It has different angles to it. One from the father's viewpoint, the other of the prodigal and that of the oldest son. It's a great read.

I know I've hammered home a lot about books lately. I'm trying not to turn this blog into a book review club! Ha. I guarantee you I'm not. It just happens that there have been good books I've read recently and wanted to share my experiences.

If you get a chance, pick up this book by MacArthur. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Haven't we all been prodigals at times? I know I have anyway. Be well all and have a great week!

3 comments:

  1. Randy, this book was sent to me. I haven't read it yet, but after reading your post, I plan to! You know I'm a fiction gal, but I do make exceptions! :)

    Have a great Easter. We're getting snow tonight and tomorrow. :(

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  2. Lately, I've felt like the older brother. I see people doing stupid things and just wonder why they do it and why they are not justly punished. Then I get home and look in the mirror to see the giant plank in my eye.

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  3. Rog,

    I've been there too. God's is gracious to all of us.

    Cindy,

    I know you are a fiction person, but you'll be happy with this book.

    Thanks for writing all,

    Randy

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