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READ Luke 15:25-27 (NIV)
25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’                      

DEVO

The older son in this parable of Jesus was the one who remained at home with the father, yet his heart was just as distant from him as his younger brother who left for a far away country. There are times when we are so filled with envy and jealousy that we can’t hear the noise in our own souls, building up resentment and anger. Moments that offer the opportunity for gratitude, joy and celebration are robbed by self loathing, regret and fear of being left out.

We’ve likely had an elder brother moment or two in our lives. We’ve taken our hurt out on a co-worker, a family member, maybe even ourselves. As we mature in our faith, we realize that our hurt is between us and God, our Father.

PRAY
How does this focus on the older brother speak to where you are with God? Ask the Spirit to search your heart and reveal any thoughts or emotions hidden in the dark so they can come to light.