Brothers

What an awesome thing to know that Jesus is not ashamed to call us brother.

In the Parable of the Prodigal Son the older brother refuses to have anything to do with the returning prodigal. Not only does he refuse to enter into the feast, he pointedly refers to "this son of yours" rather than "my brother."

He saw the prodigal as deserving nothing. He saw the prodigal as one to be despised for where he had been, for his rebellion and for how low he had sunk.

But praise God, we have a brother who rushes with the Father to greet every homecoming soul, who applauds when the ring is placed on their finger, who smiles with delight as the best robe is placed upon them, who ushers them into the courts of Heaven and who rejoices over them with singing.

And it is true that we deserve nothing. Such is the price of sin. 

And yet He delights in our return. 

Because He is the One who made the way for us to come home.

Because He knows that His sacrifice has opened the gate for our entry.

And because He knows the joy that our return brings to the heart of the Father whom He loves.

Jesus is not ashamed to call you brother. It is His delight.

So praise Him today. Tell him today how much you love Him.

And enjoy the loving presence of our wonderful brother and Lord.

He loves you.