One of the most iconic images in all of gaming is the infamous “Luigi death stare”… that look of absolute and utter disdain cast by Mario’s brother in Mario Kart. To be fair, Luigi doesn’t just roll around giving everyone the “evil eye” all of the time… he is usually known for being mild-mannered, gentle, and kind. But that friendly demeanor is quickly left behind once a fellow racer passes a jealous Luigi on the race track, as his jovial attitude is rapidly replaced with a scowl… even if it is his very own beloved brother Mario who has finally gotten on the right track. 

The story of the prodigal son’s return home to his father isn’t complete without the reaction of the brother who gave him the “Luigi death stare” as the prodigal was showered with unearned grace and forgiveness… and sadly, we’ll all face times when our Father’s grace is resented and our forgiven status rejected by those who feel we don’t “deserve it”. But that’s the point… none of us do. There will always be haters who remind us of our past failures and sneer in disbelief that we’ve changed, but we don’t have to listen to their accusations or allow them to slow us down. Let’s leave them in the dust and head towards the finish line with confidence. knowing Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient to fully restore all of the Father’s repentant children who return home.

Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, “Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.” But he was angry and would not go in. Luke 15:25-28a

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2

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