We Must Celebrate

“My son,” the father said, “you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”

Luke 15:31-32

The father had to celebrate – there was no choice. He had to be glad because the younger brother was dead but was now alive! He was lost but now found.

Celebration is a must in the Kingdom of Heaven. It is not by chance or optional… we must celebrate when the Gospel has it’s life-changing, powerful effect in the heart of a person. The prodigal comes home and Heaven celebrates. The one lost sheep… the single coin misplaced… these are found and there is great rejoicing!

I will celebrate what God celebrates. I can be more intentional and intense in this rejoicing. I want the tenacity of the shepherd and the woman as they were seeking the lost. I want the heart of the Father who runs to and embraces the prodigal son. I want to lead the church in this celebration as our mission begins to be fulfilled in the life of a person who was lost but now is found! This person… every person matters to God! Let’s celebrate as He does!

Lord Jesus – use me to promote celebration in Your Kingdom. May a spirit of rejoicing permeate me and Your people as we live for You and extend Your love and Kingdom in the hearts of those you’ve died to save. You are the mighty King! You are mighty to save! I worship You today. Be magnified through my life I pray…