Celebrate Now

I’m reading through the book of Luke (slowly). This morning I was reading Luke 15, where Jesus tells several stories after hearing squabbling going on from the Pharisees and teachers of the law about him hanging out with people of… well, tainted reputations.

Jesus, then, tells stories to fill them in on his attitude – God’s attitude – toward those who need a doctor, who need to be found. In short, his response is, “This is why I came! This is who God is about – the lost sheep, the lost coin, the lost son.” Jesus says his agenda with them is to find them and celebrate the finding!

In fact in the story of the “prodigal son”, Jesus says the outlined, carefully thought-out, rehearsed prayer of apology (or repentance) wasn’t even heard by the boy’s father (see Luke 15.21-24 in the Message). This father knew and acknowledged one thing: my son has returned, by boy is home, he’s alive! We’re throwing a party!

I need to learn to celebrate more often. As in the case of the older brother in this story, I think Jesus says to me, “You’re here. Now. Party Hearty – any day, everyday.”

And I think he might also say, “Don’t wait for the ‘right’ words or the ‘right’ prayer. Celebrate the next step. Celebrate the Spirit’s movement. Celebrate now what God is doing in others’ lives. Listen, watch, be an active observer of God’s work and people’s search. Then, celebrate, even before the prayer is finished.

So, today I'll be an active observer, watching and listening for signs of new life, new steps. And I'll celebrate what God is doing to draw people to himself through Christ.