Just like the father restoring his son in the story of the lost sons (Luke 15), God is inviting us to come home.  He invites us to come into His presence, so that we might experience the reality of His love.  

• What has happend in your life this past 40 days of Lent? 
• Did you take the time to reflect upon God’s Word?  
• Have you spent specific time with Him in prayer? 
• Did you fast from a meal, for a day, or a week during these 40 days?

The parable of the lost sons reveals that the father loves and pursues his children (just like God).  If you are missing His embrace, then it’s time for you to confess and come home.  My fear is that many of us, like the older son, we have come near the house, but have refused to come in.  We can hear the music, the laughter, and the dancing.  We can even smell the feast (Barbecue!!!)!  We have a God who throws parties for people who come home, and he wants everyone to “come rejoice”.  “We have to celebrate, we have to be glad.” Luke 15:32

Have you lost your laughter?  Have you lost your joy?  If you can’t celebrate, then you are lost too.  It is time to trust God again.  It is time to lift up forgiveness, reconciliation, healing so that we can find joy again.  Joy never denies sadness, but it transforms a life to receive more joy.  Do you find yourself grateful or bitter?  It is a choice!

Don’t miss the party.  It is time to come home.