Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered all his wealth in wild living. (Luke 14:11-13)
Just before my mom died, she asked me to make sure her jewelry was distributed to her granddaughters in the manner she wanted. I loved her so much, so it was difficult talking about her estate even though I knew she had only weeks or days to live. My father-in-law asked us what we wanted from his house before he died. I loved him, too, so it was awkward and very sad to think about him passing. I can’t imagine the horror a parent would feel if their child asked for their share of the estate while the parent was still living. It is actually a beautiful example of how God must feel when His children not only abandon Him but turn on Him with bitterness.
This son had other shortcomings. He discarded his father and brother like those who desert God and Jesus. He had no love for them. He was a poor steward of the money he was entrusted with. It was spent recklessly and selfishly. None of the money went to help others. The lost Jesus spoke to probably had no idea how much their rejection of Him in the coming weeks would hurt Him.
Dearest Heavenly Father, I’m sorry for the pain humans inflict on you. I can imagine the sorrow when I think about the feelings I’d have if my children asked me for their inheritance while I was living. Give me the power of Your Holy Spirit to be attuned to the feelings of those around me and to love them supernaturally. Help me love Your lost sheep and bring them home to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Daily Devotional Luke 15:11-13 – The Prodigal Son (Part 1) – What happens when we reject God? – Online Bible Study – Commentary in easy English – Day 314
Mom and Dad discussed their estate with me several times and I do remember, clearly, how uncomfortable it felt. No one wants to think of their parents passing but now that I am growing older I understand the need to do that. When Drew was downsized from his job and we were faced with living on one salary instead of two, I was worried. I will never forget Dad’s most generous offer. Pam, “If you need help, do not be afraid to ask. You can use the money now or when you inherit it. Your mom and I are fortunate that we can help if you need it.” When someone gives us something, even though it is now ours, there is always the expectation of using the gift wisely and being a good steward.
We are fortunate. Mom and Dad never wanted to see us suffer. It is great to have parents who stand behind us. God does that too. I will always want to use what I have inherited in a loving way.