A Compelling Power!

Yesterday, while on my usual Saturday morning walk, as I was beginning my twelfth mile I began to feel hungry. By then I had probably pretty much burned up my breakfast calories. Then, into my fifteenth mile I was really beginning to feel hungry and was glad I was heading toward home. In fact, my pace may have picked up a little bit more to get me there. In a sense I was HUNGERING FOR HOME.

This hunger as I walked brought to mind Jesus’ parable of the lost son. ( Luke 15:11-32) He had left home to go do his own thing which apparently went well until there was a famine in the land. (vs.14) It seems to have taken that famine and to be among pigs having better fare than he (verse 16) to recognize there was really a famine in his own life. It was then that his thoughts turned toward home and the HUNGERING FOR HOME began.

We read…
“(17) But when HE CAME TO HIMSELF, he said, ‘HOW MANY OF MY FATHER’S HIRED SERVANTS HAVE MORE THAN ENOUGH BREAD, BUT I PERISH HERE WITH HUNGER! (18) I WILL ARISE AND GO TO MY FATHER, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. (19) I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.’” ( Luke 15:17-19 ESV)

And so he arose and headed home. Though a child of the father he was willing to be taken back as a hired servant. How ever he would be received, he would be happy to be home. Had he not been receptive to the hunger pains he might have remained the lost son. The wonderful part of the story is the picture of a father (the picture of our Heavenly Father) eager to welcome him home. (verses 20-24)

Jesus encouraged…
“Blessed are those who HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS, for THEY SHALL BE SATISFIED.” ( Matthew 5:6 ESV)

Hunger for other things can get us into trouble. However, when we realize how empty what we are feeding on really is, the renewal of a HUNGER FOR HOME can powerfully compel us to return. That HUNGER FOR HOME can also keep us there when we maintain due appreciation for what our Heavenly Father lovingly provides for His family.

Have a great day APPRECIATING THE FATHER’S FLAVORFUL FARE!
Carl

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