The Heart of Heaven

Luke 15:1-2
1 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

Luke 15:25-32
25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. 28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him. 29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: 30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. 31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. 32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

Thoughts:
The beginning and end of Luke 15 reveal contrasting attitudes towards sinners. The Pharisees grumble about Jesus welcoming sinners and Publicans, while heaven rejoices over one who repents. The older brother's resentment mirrors the Pharisees' attitude. Today, examine your heart. Do you find yourself more like the celebrating host of Heaven or the grumbling Pharisees when it comes to welcoming those who are lost? 

Prayer:
Ask God to give you His heart of compassion for the lost. Pray for opportunities to welcome someone who might feel excluded or judged by others. Remember, we are all recipients of God's undeserved grace.