So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.
Luke 15:20 (NASB)
Today I was touched by the art representation of the prodigal son entitled “He Ran To Me!”. It is one of many beautiful creations by Kevin Carden. The parable of “the prodigal son” is one of my favorites; it could also be titled “the waiting father.” As Kevin’s art reminded me of the father running to greet his son back I was reminded of how this father cast off the social norms of how he should behave and showed his love, running to embrace his son.
Every time I read the prodigal son’s story I am personally reminded of a time many years ago when I left my Father God, even though in my view I had only left the church. It was later that I realized I had left God too, and I missed Him. In my loneliness and separation, I thought of going back to Father God, not realizing He had been watching over me all along – He sent a man of God to fetch me home! I don’t know whether God runs, but I do know that He watches and seeks His children, no matter how far away they are.
Dear Reader, this short message may be for you today – are you far away from God, wishing to return to His embrace? If so, this post is His messenger to you today! Like the father in the parable, Father God loves you, forgives your waywardness when you repent, and He will embrace you when you return to Him. There will be rejoicing in Heaven when you return to Him!
I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Luke 15:7
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Devotional Treasures
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