Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
October 02, 2023: SOAP #5051: Zechariah 13-14; Psalm 147; Luke 15

SCRIPTURE:  Luke (NIV) 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he [the younger brother] was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him … . 28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So, his father went out and pleaded with him.

OBSERVATION:  Read the whole story (verses 11-32) and take note of the two verses above.  I see that the main character in the story is the father. His consistency in loving his sons is the main subject.  When he saw his youngest returning home, he left his watching post and ran to greet him.  The Father’s heart of love would not allow him to remain at home! 

AND when the oldest son refused to come to the celebration, the father left the celebration to go out and plead with him to join the party.  The Father’s heart of love would not allow him to remain in the celebration! 

APPLICATION:  The love in my heart is proved by my words AND my actions.  My love can be seen in the sacrifices I am willing to make.  Love calls me to leave my comfortable places.  Love calls me to be vulnerable.  Love calls me to reach out and go out to contact those God is loving through me.

PRAYER:  Heavenly Father, your love motivated you to welcome the younger brother and to plead with the older brother.  May your love flowing through me motivate me to do what is appropriate.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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