33rd Day of Lent- Luke 15:29- Rivalry

In an earlier parable, "The Workers in the Vineyard," the question of fairness came up.  It doesn't seem fair that the workers who start late in the day are paid the same, a day's wage, as those that started at the beginning of the day.  And yet the owner did what he promised, it's just that he was more than generous to those who worked less hours.

In this parable, the question of fairness again arises, but now from the viewpoint of the older brother.  "It's not fair" that the  younger, disobedient brother gets a party when he returns home, but the faithful, obedient older brother never has had a party.  Sibling rivalry indeed, and perhaps for good reason, from a human point of view!

A party wasn't necessary for the older brother.  He was cared for and had much to celebrate every day.  He still had his portion of the inheritance, plenty of food, shelter, and daily work.  The younger brother lost all of that when he went away.  Through his actions, he was as good as dead to the father and the family.  But he wasn't dead.  In the midst of his departure, at his lowest point, he turned around and came back.  The older brother had everything he ever needed.  The younger one lost it all.  Rather than judge his younger brother, the older brother, too, learns he should welcome him back, simply thankful that the one thought to be dead, has returned to the family.

It's so easy to fall into that judgmental attitude.  That's what had happened with the scribes and the Pharisees.  They felt they were morally superior to others.  But Jesus brings a new understanding.  Every person is valued in God's eyes and welcome in the family, regardless of what may have taken place in the past.  Those of us who are blessed to be in God's daily care, ought be especially grateful when others join or return to the household of God.