Jailer's Adoption

JAILER’S ADOPTION

Third of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series

Luke 15:31-32

“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”

Hopi asked Paul, “Did the dad have other kids?”

Paul answered, “Yes, and the older son was angry that dad threw a banquet for the son who wasted his inheritance on wild living.”

“I see his point.” Hopi said.

“This is where you come in, Hopi.” Paul said, smiling.

“Me? What do you mean?”

“Our heavenly Father wants no one to be turned away from His family. His invitation is given to everyone. The son who returned home broke is as welcome as a new kid who comes to the Father now. Both were “lost, and are now found.” Father God celebrates every kid he adopts into His family.”

“But what about the kids who are already in Father God’s family?”

“Like me?” Paul asked.

“Yeah. Won’t you be jealous if your Father adopts me as His kid?”

“No, man!” Paul explained, “The the whole point of spreading the gospel of Christ is to bring people into God’s family!”

“This is the conflict your church in Philippi is arguing over: grace vs. the law. And I am not a Jew. Am I even allowed into your Father’s family?” Hopi reminded Paul (See Eye on the Ball devotion).

“Of course, Hopi. You see, Jesus died for the forgiveness of people’s sins. Everyone who believes in Him, becomes a child of God. The law has no power over grace where people’s salvation is concerned. Eternal life is given to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ." (John 3:16).

“And the Father—just like the dad of that son who returned home broke—celebrates every new believer of Jesus?” Hopi asked, getting excited.

“Yes He does!” Paul suddenly got serious. He looked deeply into Hopi’s eyes. He said, “Are you ready to repent of your sins, and accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life? If so, let me baptize you right now!”

Take Home Nugget

The deepest immersion in prison was a bucket of water. Surrounded by watching prisoners, Paul dunked Hopi’s head under the water, then lifted it out. “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. You’ve been buried with Christ and rose to a new life in Him. Welcome to God’s family!” Paul announced.

Holy Father, Let your kids form relationships with others, who want salvation, peace, and joy in Christ. Let us be Your witnesses to the world, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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