Recognizing God's Work
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, open our hearts to recognize Your work in our lives and the lives of those we love. Guide us with Your Spirit to trust in Your perfect plan. Amen.
"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.'"
In this parable, Jesus introduces us to a family dynamic that mirrors many of our own experiences. The younger son's request for his inheritance is a bold and disrespectful demand, essentially wishing his father dead. This sets the stage for a story of rebellion, consequence, and ultimately, redemption.
REFLECT:
The parable of the prodigal son is a profound narrative that speaks to the heart of parenting and the nature of free will. The father's decision to grant his son's request, despite its implications, highlights a critical aspect of parenting: allowing children to make their own choices. This can be incredibly challenging, as it involves stepping back and trusting God to work in their lives. Pastor Carter’s message reminds us that, like the father in the parable, we must sometimes let go and allow our children to experience the consequences of their actions. This is not a sign of neglect but of faith in God's greater plan.
The cultural context of the story adds depth to our understanding. In Jesus' time, a son asking for his inheritance while the father was still alive was unheard of and deeply disrespectful. Yet, the father complies, illustrating God's respect for our free will. This act of letting go is a powerful lesson for us as we navigate our relationships with our children or those we mentor. It teaches us to trust that God is at work, even when we cannot see it.
As we reflect on this passage, we are encouraged to recognize God's hand in the lives of our loved ones. We are reminded that our role is not to control but to guide, love, and trust. This trust is not passive but active, involving prayer, support, and a readiness to welcome them back with open arms, just as the father did.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will ask one open-ended question with a kid in my life, especially when they've made a mistake.
It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does matter. One thoughtful question can open the door to a meaningful conversation and remind a kid that they are seen, loved, and not alone. To help you with that, we’ve created a list of simple, open-ended conversation starters you can use with the kids and students in your life. You can find them in the Pathway app or at pathwaychurch.com/parentresources
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the wisdom to recognize Your work in our lives. Help us to trust You more deeply and to release our fears, knowing that You are in control. Guide us to be loving and supportive, reflecting Your grace. Amen