By Rembrandt – 5QFIEhic3owZ-A at Google Cultural Institute, zoom level maximum, Public Domain, Link
There were two brothers. Both had the wrong idea about what it meant to be sons of a father who loved them in ways they did not understand.
We journey to Luke 15 to refresh our recollection.
The elder brother, an heir, knew his responsibilities, stayed home and worked like one who saw himself as a slave. The younger brother knew his rights, took his inheritance, and partied like a man who thought he was free.
The elder brothers life went on day to day with order, predictability, and success. The younger brother lived lavishly until the money was all gone and fell into sewer, stuck.
The younger brother left the father's house; the older brother would not enter because he disapproved of the party that was going on to honor the returning younger brother.
The younger brother returned, as a pleading slave.
The older brother returned from the work day, strutting with pride.
Both had a surprise waiting. The younger brother was greeted with a welcome he could not have imagined. The elder brother was revolted and repulsed by the extravagant and inappropriate celebration in his father's house. He refused to enter.
In both cases, the father went out of the house to meet his sons.
The elder brother said, "YOUR son;" the father replied, "YOUR brother."
The elder brother said, "I have been your servant;" the father said, "You have always been my son."
The elder brother wanted a party with his friends; the younger brother was enveloped into a party with his father and his father's friends.
In the case of both brothers, the father embraced them as sons.
It is about relationship, one where the father takes most of the initiative and pays all the costs.
We must celebrate; we must party; we must rejoice. Your brother was dead. Your brother is now alive.
We are invited to a celebration, both as guests of honor and as fellow celebrants of those who have returned.
The way we can most please our Father, is by coming.
Pastor Tom's Community 
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