Like all the stories Jesus told, this one comes very close to home.

We justly celebrate the prodigal. He finds himself among the pigs, then soberly concludes that he should go back home. And we deplore that bitter brother whose body never left the farm, but whose hard heart had left the Father long ago.

Unlike each other as they seem, both shared a common malady. Neither prized the love that gave them birth, that nurtured them 10,000 days, that waited—on the porch and at the table—to see if love would change their lives.

Misunderstanding grace is not related to how far you roam. This story proves that you can miss it, even if you stay at home.

 Of Jesus, Scripture testifies that “He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household” (Eph 2:17-19).

Grace offers us a family, even when our stories are miles apart. The waiting Father’s heart of love still calls each of His children home.

Heed the call to join the feast.

And stay in grace. -Bill Knott