Come Home – A Reflection for Mothering Sunday
This Mothering Sunday, we paused to reflect not only on the gift of mothers, but on the deeper call to come home—to the place of belonging, restoration, and grace found in the Father’s embrace. Rev. Andrew Irwin led us through the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11–32, a familiar story with fresh power, reminding us of God’s patient, pursuing love for all His children.
More Than a Place
Home, as we were reminded, is not just a building or a memory. It’s the people, relationships, and moments of formation that make it meaningful. On Mothering Sunday, many returned historically to their “mother church”—the spiritual home that nurtured their faith. In the same way, we are invited to remember the deeper home we find in God, the one who forms us, welcomes us, and loves us without condition.
A Tale of Two Sons
The sermon explored the well-known parable of the lost son—but not just one. Jesus tells the story of two sons: one who runs away and squanders everything, and one who stays close but becomes bitter. Both are lost in different ways. The younger son returns, expecting judgement, but instead is embraced and restored by a Father who runs to meet him. The older son, however, refuses to celebrate, revealing a heart hardened by pride and performance.
The Heart of the Father
The key point? Grace. Scandalous, overwhelming grace. The Father does not shame or punish, but restores and celebrates. He welcomes the rebellious and pleads with the resentful. In this, Jesus reveals the heart of God—not only to the sinners listening, but to the religious leaders who needed to understand that no one earns their place in the kingdom. We are all invited by grace alone.
Where Do You Stand?
The challenge is this: where are we in this story? Are we the younger son, needing to come home? Are we the older son, struggling to rejoice in God's mercy toward others? Or perhaps we are a mixture of both. The call remains the same: come home. The Father is watching, waiting, running to meet us with open arms.
Listen & Join Us
If you missed the sermon or want to listen again, we encourage you to listen to the full message below. It’s a powerful reminder of God's love and the invitation to return—wherever you’ve been and however you’re feeling.
🎧 Listen to the message:
We’d love to welcome you home. Join us at St Paul’s & St Barnabas every Sunday at 10:30am. Whether you’ve been away for a while or have never been before, there’s a place for you here. Come as you are—you are always welcome.
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