You represent your Father

When the father saw his prodigal son, he had compassion. Pastor Jack Graham writes: ‘This isn’t a father who can’t wait to punish his sinful son, who has written him off as wasted and worthless. This is a loving, caring father who can’t wait to embrace and welcome him. He runs down the road to meet him. What you see is a picture of the Father’s love for you; eager, excessive, approachable and abundant.’ Max Lucado adds: ‘The tale involves a wealthy father and a wilful son who takes his inheritance to Las Vegas and wastes it on slot machines and call girls. Broke and too proud to go home, he gets a job sweeping stables at the racetrack. When he finds himself eating their oats, he realises enough is enough. Off he goes, rehearsing his repentance speech. ‘But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion …’ (Luke 15:20 NKJV). We expect crossed arms, a furrowed brow, a guarded handshake and a stern lecture. Instead, the father said, ‘Bring out the best robe … a ring … sandals … And bring the fatted calf …’ (Luke 15:22-23 NKJV). The ring symbolised delegated authority. The one who wore it carried on business in the name of the one who gave it. Would you have given this prodigal the power of attorney over your matters? Entrusted him with your bank card? When you came to God, you were given the authority to conduct business in His name. When you speak the truth, you’re His ambassador (see 2 Corinthians 5:20). As you steward finances He gives, you’re His business manager. When you proclaim forgiveness, you’re His priest. He has given you the privilege to do for others what He does for you. Don’t withhold encouragement or affirmation! Speak words that strengthen others. Why? Because you represent your Father!