“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” --Luke 15:22-24

On such a great day for celebration as this, every chair was filled except one—the chair next to the robe-covered prodigal. The chair belonged to the elder brother—the “good boy” who minded his own business, lived by the rules, and stayed clear of trouble. He was on his way home after a hard day of chores on the land and he was unaware that the fuss had to do with a surprise homecoming of his younger brother.

As far as the eldest figured, he didn’t think he’d ever lay eyes on his brother again. In fact, that his younger brother even had the nerve to come back home brought up some deeply negative feelings. The prodigal had asked his dad for his inheritance and took off without leaving a trace!

How could his dad even consider throwing a welcome-home party for the prodigal? The eldest brother was bitter and resentful for his father’s actions and for his younger brother’s wasted living. In this famous Bible story of the prodigal son, there’s an underlying question we can all ask: How can a blessed person become so ungrateful? The eldest brother was performance-driven, possessions-blinded, and relationally distant.

Many people often miss their share of the happiness because they haven’t stopped to enjoy it. What standard do you use to determine your blessings? The younger brother learned that poverty came out of his poor decisions, but the older brother didn’t take time to discover his father’s heart. If we are unable to share in the joy of the Father’s heart, then something is wrong. The prodigal-like people flock to Jesus because they are truly thankful for what He’s given them—salvation, hope, and a future.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Stop and thank the Lord for His blessings. Pray that God would help you discover His heart for people who are in need.

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