These days I started reading a book called “Come thirsty” by Max Lucado. I didn’t get very far yet, but one chapter really stood out last night.

He’s sharing about the Prodigal Son. Nothing new to most of us. How his Father is running towards him. He’s throwing his arms around his boy even though he’s quite disgusting, to say the least. And he’s giving him a new robe, a ring and new shoes. His big brother is not quite as happy about the whole scene.

In the light of some of Paul’s letters Max was thinking how this well-known story could have gone on: A few days later the elder son shows up, telling his younger brother that now it’s crucial for him to make sure there wouldn’t be any stains on his new robe. Otherwise his Father would throw him out within no time. And he also should make sure his shoe laces are tied nicely or his Father would get mad. And actually he was supposed to wear his ring on his thumb – that’s what his Dad would love to see.

During my first years as a believer I trusted in advices of many “elder brothers”. What’s very obvious in this story is not quite as easy to notice in our lives. However, it still takes away our joy of being a Christian – of living with the Father. My favourite author Max comes straight to the point: How can God invite us to a banquet, expecting us to pay it off? If he fell around the neck of his smelly son he won’t throw him out because he’s got some stains on his robe! That’s grace.

Now I’m learning to discern between “big brothers rules” and my Fathers advices. It’s very relaxing, I tell you!