What if the most prodigal person in Jesus’ story isn’t the son?

He takes his father’s money, wishes his father were dead, leaves home, blows everything, and ends up in a pigsty. Then he comes home with a plan to earn his way back.

But the father does something absolutely outrageous. Prodigal. Reckless.

He runs.

Before the apology is finished or restitution is made, even before the son gets to the house, the father runs straight toward him with reckless, extravagant grace.

Luke 15:11–32 is one of those stories we think we know—until we actually slow down and listen to it again. If you get a moment, try to read the text. And listen ready to ask: What kind of God runs after people who have walked away from him?

Pastor Jace

Dear St. Andrews Family,

What is love, really?

It’s more than a feeling (Do you see Marianne walking away?)

Is it an experience (Baby don’t hurt me, don’t hurt me, no more)?

Is it accepting others (all your perfect imperfections)?

Is it fate (Darling, so it goes, some things are meant to be)?

Is it absolute devotion (everything I do, I do it for you)?

Or could love look much more ordinary—and much more powerful—than we imagine?

As we finish our journey through Ruth, we’ll discover that the Bible has a surprisingly rich answer to the question, “What is love?” Ruth and Boaz show us a love that risks, initiates, crosses boundaries, gives more than expected, stays loyal, and ultimately brings redemption.

Before Sunday, try to read the whole book of Ruth—slow readers maybe 20 minutes. Come ready to see this familiar story in a new way—and maybe to ask yourself a harder question: Who in my life needs me to show them what love really is?

Oh, and the first person to text me with the artists or song titles above wins my eternal admiration.

Pastor Jace

Dear St Andrews Family,

I want to connect the last few verses of thebook of Ruth with the Christmas story (I know it’s not Christmas, but the incarnation is always significant) to remind you of this important truth—God loves you and he is working even amidst the emptiness you are possibly feeling.He will bring fullness.

That should be enough, but in case it’s not. . . Star Wars, Kings, Apollo 13, reunited lovers, and the crash of flight 191. Can’t wait to be with you.

Pastor Jace