An Attitude of Celebration

Doris High

I often think about the attitude of celebration during holidays, birthdays, and events that bring cause for celebration – and the many who refuse to celebrate.

However, what triggered this article was reading the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:28 when the older son refused to celebrate.

I’ve read and heard that story since I was a child, but this time I saw it with new “eyes.”

I always knew the prodigal came home, that the father was ecstatic with joy, and that the older brother was angry, but I never realized that the older brother would not even come into the house.

He was the only one not having a good time!

The family’s celebration did not stop because of the older son’s bitterness and stubbornness.

The older I grow, the more I realize that the world is full of selfish, unhappy people who won’t go to a celebration because someone hurt them.

However, the family, church, business, or ministry celebration goes on.

You can refuse to go to a certain church because someone hurt you

But the church will go on.

You are the loser.

You can refuse to go to a family dinner or celebration

But the family will go on.

You are the loser.

You can leave a business or ministry because of anger or bitterness

But the business and ministry will go on

You are the loser.

God is planning a large celebration someday – in Heaven

The Supper of the Lamb

Those who choose to follow Him will celebrate with Him

The celebration will go on

With our without you!