Afterward the children of Israel shall return and seek the LORD their God, and David their king, and they shall come in fear to the LORD and to his goodness in the latter days.
The Prodigal Son story is so well known that even the Rolling Stones recorded a song that, amazingly, tells the Bible story quite well. Bad boy returns, is forgiven, fatted calf feast. But what if the Prodigal does not return but continues on the path of destruction? Is there forgiveness? Yes, because, as Hosea prophesied, God is the Hound of Heaven, pursuing his chosen people to bring them back to himself. No story tells that more beautifully than Hosea and his wife, Gomer. It is not clear whether she even wanted mercy and forgiveness. She may have wanted to be left alone to die, a lonely old woman. But Hosea, commanded by God, went out and got her.
Come (or return) to Cape Community Church tomorrow to learn how God pursues even those who hide from him like Jonah. See how this story illustrates the gospel for Israel. And for us. I suspect you will be moved as I believe there is no more beautiful story of mercy and love in all of Scripture than the strange love story of Hosea and Gomer, and God and his covenant people. Paul showed in Romans that if God wants to save you, you will be saved, whether you want it or not. Let’s get ready to praise the Lord for that.
Dear Lord, thank you that while we were yet prodigal, you pursued us with your steadfast love. Help us to remember that as we worship you tomorrow. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church