How Far Is Far?

Tonight we are continuing our study of the parable of the prodigal son recorded in Luke 15:11-32. There are a couple of things that we are putting a great deal of emphasis on. The first is that it is actually about the prodigal "sons" - in fact, both sons were prodigal in their own way. The other has to do with where each of these sons went. I know, you are thinking that only one of them left home. And you are exactly right. That brings us to another interesting thought. It says in verse 13 that the younger son went into a far country. Because of the mode of travel, a far country for him would not be what we would consider a great distance today. So, the question arises - how far is far? Just where did he have to go to be considered in a far country? The point is that he had, of his own volition, left the security and provisions of his father's house to go out into the world. Did it really matter if he was 5 miles away or 50 miles away? He was not where he should have been or needed to be. So, how does that tie into the elder son, since he remained there at home? I am glad you asked. As time passed and the younger son realized his mistake, he humbled himself and returned home. He returned to a father that was eagerly awaiting his arrival. Though feeling unworthy and ashamed, he was reinstated to his former position as a son, and not as a servant. The father sent for "the" fatted calf, that had been in preparation for the son's return. And a celebration in sued. The elder son became bitter because of what his father had done. Which tells us that though he never physically left his home, mentally, he was just a much in a far country as his younger brother. Here the point in this. We can be faithful to God's house and tithe and work for God, and still be in a far country if 0ur hearts are not in it. The younger son came home because he wanted to. The elder son stayed because he felt he had to. Do we serve God because we want to or because we feel obligate? Are you in a far country?