Have you ever felt lost, only to find your way back home? Or perhaps you've experienced the joy of welcoming someone back after a long absence? There's something powerful about returning to where we belong, about coming back to ourselves. Today, I want to share with you a message of hope, commitment, and celebration that speaks to the heart of our spiritual journey.
The Prodigal's Party: A Lesson in Celebration
Let me take you back to a story Jesus told, one that's likely familiar to many of you. It's found in Luke, chapter 15, and it's often called the Parable of the Lost Son. This story paints a vivid picture of a young man who, despite having everything, chose to do things his own way. He asked for his inheritance while his father was still alive – a deeply disrespectful act – and then squandered it all.
But here's where it gets interesting. Luke 15:17 tells us, "When he finally came to his senses..." This phrase, in the original Greek, means "to come back to oneself." It's about becoming who you were meant to be all along.
When this young man realized he was living contrary to his true nature, he did the only thing that made sense – he went home. And how did his father respond? With a celebration like no other! Luke 15:22-24 describes it beautifully:
"But his father said to the servants, 'Quick, bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet, and kill the calf we've been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.' So the party began."
Commitment Sunday: Our Own Homecoming
On Commitment Sunday, it's all about coming back to ourselves. We're allowing God to take His rightful place in our lives, committing ourselves to the plans and purposes that bring us the greatest fulfillment. And it’s not too late to make a commitment.
As you think about making commitments, I want to remind you of two important things:
1. Celebrations are a time to remember what God has done.
2. Celebrations are a time to respond to what God is doing.
The Five Practices: Our Path to Spiritual Growth
Today, you're invited to be a "Waymaker" – to make the way for your own spiritual growth by committing to five key practices:
1. Praying Declaring our trust in God
2. Growing: Becoming more like Jesus
3. Giving: Acknowledging God's blessings
4. Serving: Participating in God's work in the world
5.Inviting* Helping others experience God's grace
When we commit to these practices, we're saying with our actions that an investment in the present pays off in the future.
The Waymakers Campaign: Paving the Way for Future Generations
But our commitment doesn't stop with our personal growth. Through the Waymakers Capital Campaign, we're also making a way for generations to come. This campaign is about investing in the future of our church and community, ensuring that the message of hope and redemption continues to reach those who need it most.
Putting It Into Practice: Next Steps
So, how can we apply this message to our lives? Here are some practical steps:
1. Reflect on God's faithfulness: Take some time to remember how God has been faithful in your life. This will fuel your celebration and strengthen your commitment.
2. Make a commitment: Whether you're ready to commit to the five practices or the Waymakers Campaign, take that step of faith. Remember, it's okay if you're not ready yet – God meets us where we are.
3. Celebrate your commitment: Don't wait until you see results. Celebrate the act of commitment itself, just as the father celebrated his son's return.
4. Stay connected: If you're new to our church, consider planning a visit. Head here to sign up for a welcome email and get more information about our community.
Today is a day of celebration. We're coming back to ourselves, aligning our lives with God's purposes, and investing in a future filled with hope. So let's celebrate our commitments, knowing that God is faithful and that He rejoices when we return to Him.