Arrows Not Lines: Discovering a Centered-Set FaithSample

“While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion.” (Luke 15:20 NIV)

This story is a picture-perfect example of arrows, not lines. One son disrespects his father and squanders his inheritance. The other son follows the rules but is bitter and distant. And yet, when the younger son turns toward home, the father runs.

That line—“while he was still a long way off”—should stop us in our tracks. The father doesn’t wait until the son has grovelled or proven himself. It’s his direction that matters. He’s coming home. That’s enough.

The older son, meanwhile, is technically close—but his heart is facing away. He refuses to join the celebration. In a bounded set view of faith, we’d say the older son is “in” and the younger son was “out.” But Jesus flips it. The younger son moves toward the father. The older stands outside, arms crossed.

So where are you facing? Have you run far? You can still turn. Are you close but cold-hearted? Jesus cares more about your direction than your distance.

Reflection Question: Do I relate more to the younger son or the older brother? Where is my heart pointing?

Prayer: Father, thank you that you run toward me even when I’m a long way off. Help me to turn toward you again today. Whether I’ve wandered or grown cold, I want to be close to you—not just in theory, but in heart.