In the reflection on the parable of the prodigal son, we observe how he recognized that he had sinned in two dimensions.
"His son said to him: 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'" (Luke 15:21 NTV)
These were the words of the son as he reflected and decided to return to his father. He understood that his sin encompassed both the earthly and the heavenly realms: an offense against his father on earth and against God in heaven.
It is crucial to remember that our actions, whether doing something or refraining from doing it, always have eternal repercussions.
He, experiencing repentance, confessed his sin and sought forgiveness both from his father, whom he had dishonored, and from God, for deviating from His purpose.
The faith test for this son, who squandered his entire inheritance (his purpose), lay in recognizing his sin and overcoming the negative thoughts that suggested it wasn't worth returning, that his father wouldn't even receive him as a hired servant. To pass this test, he had to change his course, rise up, and seek the desired forgiveness, the forgiveness that would bring him back to his homes (notice that I write it in plural). He returned both to his father's house and to the kingdom of his Heavenly Father.
When we sin, we not only violate earthly relationships but also sin against God. The pursuit of forgiveness must be directed in both directions: towards those we have offended on earth and towards God.
What we do on earth affects heaven; it distances us from our divine purpose. By acknowledging our sin and seeking forgiveness, God promotes us and restores what the enemy stole from us through sin.
Written by Víctor Preza, based on the sermon of 04/11/2023.
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