Forgiveness

This is one of the most famous and beloved story Jesus ever told. Though it’s commonly known as the parable of the prodigal son, the story actually features two sons. They represent two different ways of avoiding God. And it turns out there’s more than one prodigal. The father in the story helps us to imagine just how outrageously extravagant God’s love for us is.

Healthy relationships are key to building a great life. So how do we deal with the pain often experienced there? What role is forgiveness supposed to play? How do we do that authentically when it’s especially difficult for us?

The power of grace does not eras our past, but rather re-forms it, transforming who we were into who we are called to be. Free from shame and redeemed by God’s undying love, the chorus of scripture’s song is that there are no lost causes with God.

How does Paul open his letter to the Ephesians, which he wrote while chained in a Roman prison? Not by complaining, arguing, or reflecting on his circumstances in a well-reasoned manner. Instead, he opened with a surprisingly emotional outburst of praise. What caused this? Are there lessons we can learn to help us face our own challenges?

What do we do when we don’t know what to do with our pain, spiritual distress, or uncertainty in life? This ancient song invites us into a journey of emotional authenticity that leads us to a place of hope.

What do you think the most powerful force on earth is? Jesus said it’s how we treat people who’ve injured us. Instead of rejecting them, retaliating or taking revenge—it’s loving them in shockingly sacrificial ways. This Sunday at City Church: Radical Love.