At one time, we might have said shindig. Or hoedown. Or just party.
They mean the same: to get together, let the good times roll, and have a whale of a time. We look for occasions to share the bib, pass the cup, or to jostle elbows. We throw dinner parties, join the bowling team, and arrange block parties. Birthday festivities, holiday gatherings, and Super Bowl parties are out there for anyone who wants to join in.
So, what was the elder brother’s problem in the story of the prodigal son? He was refusing to join in the party? What was wrong with the guy? His brother had returned from his downfall, and he was reunited with his family. Gear up the band! Let the party begin!
We face the same conundrum today when a church member falls from grace. We want them to pay a penance for having failed Christ. That’s not the way the Lord sees it.
Luke 15:32 tells us the prodigal son’s father’s viewpoint:
“It was [necessary] that we should make merry, and be glad: for this your brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.”
To rewrite this scripture for the 21st century would sound something like this:
“Let’s have a celebration, for one of the redeemed had fallen into sin, and he’s rededicated his life to Christ. He’s no longer living for self; he’s living for our Lord.”
The celebration renews our bonds of fellowship in the Lord. What does our party look like? Maybe an invitation to a backyard barbecue. Or a trip to the lake. Bowling. A baseball game. Lunch at the mall. A phone call. Emails. A good morning on Sundays.
It’s called celebrating Christ with everyone who stakes their faith in his Holy Name.
When someone proclaims their faith in Christ, that’s always a good reason to get together and celebrate.
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Code: FGO.E.15.17c.vp.kjv