Reference: Luke 15:11-32
There comes a time when we may feel far away from the Lord. We may even remain in the church, going through the 'motions' of church worship, Bible study, Sunday School, and every other event in the church. Though our physical bodies remain in church, our hearts and minds are far, far away. We remember past days when we felt on fire and in the very center of God's will, but something happened. We may be able to identify a specific incident and others may not, but the results are unmistakable. Week after week, we sit in church services wondering why we don't feel the same as before.
Is something wrong with me?! What am I doing wrong?! Where is the Father?!
We want to speak to God, but few words come out or even to our mind. We feel isolated and may even isolate ourselves...only creating a deeper abyss of pain, fear, and defeat.
We want to live as God wills, but the mountain of change seems too great. We want to turn things around for the better, but how can we if we don't know where to begin. We may even feel ashamed for drifting so far...
There came a point when son that departed in the referenced parable came to himself - realizing his current condition and the way of return. I think this is important for those that desire a return 'home.' There comes a time when we must not only come to the realization that things are different, but accept responsibility for the way they are and know there is a way 'home.' After all that happened in the son's life, he knew he could return to his father. How much more can we?!
Acts 17:28a (KJV) - For in him we live, and move, and have our being
We must make the trek back to the Father. (A return to God isn't about the others around us either!) See, the son in the parable wasn't concerned about his brother - only the father. For us, a time may come to reconcile broken relationships, but restoration must begin with the Father first!
As you make your return to the Father, you return as the son did, with humility and a repentant heart. You can return to Him in the comfort of your home, car, or before the church congregation. The physical location doesn't matter...only the 'location' of your heart and mind before Him. Even if you make a return to church, remain committed to rebuilding your life with God. Remain without pride, offense, and anger. Allow the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to fill you completely. Allow God's Word to cleanse your path (Psalm 119:9). Let change begin!
Are you tired of eating pig slop? A change is waiting for you today!
