"But the father said to his slaves, 'Quickly bring out a robe - the best one - and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate...'"
(Luke 15:23)
We all know this story: Two sons. One father. Younger son demands his inheritance (before Dad's dead!). He leaves. He blows it all. He comes home with his tail between his legs. Father welcomes him with open arms. Older brother's miffed! Dad: "Was lost; Is found! REJOICE!" The end.
Today when I was rereading this story, however, one word stood out: QUICKLY! It's the first word the Father said when his wayward son returned home. "Quickly!" Now, if we didn't know the story, we might think he wants the son to quickly apologize... or quickly explain his shameful behavior... or even quickly get out of his father's presence. But no, he wants to quickly dispense grace: restoring his son to prominence (robe, ring, sandals = full acceptance as a member of the family!). Which is quite amazing, given the embarrassment his son has caused him. Deuteronomy 21:18-21 states that a father can legally stone to death (yes, you read that right!) a rebellious and wayward son! Wow. This father, however, didn't exercise that right. He simply let his son go... then waited... waited... waited for his son to "come to himself" (v.17) and return home.
We have a lot to learn from this father, don't we? We're used to doing things quickly... but prefer quick justice and retribution over quick grace & restoration (at least when dealing with those who have hurt us!). "Make sure they're truly sorry, first! Make sure they understand the wrong they've done!" That's our mindset. Usually.
What a blessing that God is not like that, yah?!
PRAYER: You are a God of QUICKLY! Your grace & forgiveness is ready for me long before I'm ready to ask for it. Thank you, God. And help me to have a bit more grace a bit more quickly for others! AMEN.
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