Abel, Cain, The Prodigal Son's Older Brother and The Father

Think about these two stories from the Bible (Cain and Abel, The Prodigal Son) and the way that Cain and the older, 'non-prodigal' brother respond with blame and hostility toward God/The Father when their heart about and toward God is revealed. In both stories God is obviously the loving father watching over his children, even when they 'go astray'. Cain and the older brother reveal that they are 'in it' for themselves and are frustrated that God/The Father would mess with their sense of what's right and good and question their heart.

Several people have recently said things to me about their struggles in following God and it made me remember that when we are 'in it' (it = being church going people, Christians, etc) for ourselves we often find ourselves frustrated with God. What's good is that he will patiently and loving (and if need be very bluntly) show us our heart toward him and others, if we'll listen. The question is for us, will we respond like Cain and the older brother? Or will we let the Spirit gently lead us to see God's love for us and his invitation to join him and step away from our own sense of right and good and into his love and grace?

What stories from the Bible have illuminated your heart about...your heart? Which stories have convicted you of the need to change your heart and/or your thinking? What have they taught you about God?

PS: Yes, I know that Cain, Abel and God weren't/aren't white guys. It's just a picture that someone painted a long while back reflecting their interpretation of the scene based on their understanding at the time.