Thoughts for another day

November 16, 2010

Today's verse: Lk. 15:20. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.  (KJV)

(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

When I think of my Father in heaven, my soul is pleased not only to know of His love for me, but His abundant mercy.  Jesus exemplified this in the parable of the lost son in a way that were one to reflect deeply, they would understand the heart of the father of the son, who is none else but a perfect example of the person of our Father in heaven itself. 

Look at our verse above.  See, the son came to his senses when he realized that many of his father's servants were far better than he was.  He got up saying that he would return to his father whom he had literally considered dead – for we know that the division of the property of a man among his descendents happens only after he dies – and somehow summoned the courage to go back.  He did this because he was in dire straits and he knew that if he didn't do that, he would die in hunger.  He was under compulsion.

But the father had no compulsion.  He was not bound to show any sympathy to his son who had been a thorn in his flesh and had insulted and debased him.  Yet, our Scripture says that when the son was far off, the father noticed him and 'ran' to his son and having mercy, fell on him embraced and kissed him… the person who had shamed him no end.  Love was in operation, a love that chose to ignore all faults!  So is our God and Father and even better I'll add.  Look at the way we treat Him.  I insult Him and deny Him umpteen no of times and even fail to seek His advice on key issues; yet, He never leaves me nor forsakes me.  He comes to me, rather than me going to Him, when I turn and seek His help, in fact, He runs to me… remember Jesus said, there is great jubilation in heaven over one sinner who repents!  My friend, don't run away and hide from such a beautiful God, rather show Him your trouble and ask for pardon.  He will be quick to embrace you and send salvation.