Returning to God

Read Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his slaves, 'Quickly, bring out a robe; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was lost and is found!" And they began to celebrate. Luke 15: 20-24 (NRSV)

After receiving his share of the inheritance, the son in the parable from Luke 15 left home and lived wildly. When he was in need of help, he remembered his father again. He must have felt ashamed of his actions and wondered if his father would ever forgive him. But returning home was the best decision that the son could have made. The father joyfully welcomed his lost son, kissing him and calling for a celebration.

When we fall away from our faith or offend God, we may feel undeserving of God's mercy. But this parable reminds us that God always forgives. God sent Jesus to redeem us from our guilt, shame, disbelief, and unfaithfulness. We may think that our sin could never be forgiven, but God is always awaiting our return.

No matter how far we may feel from God, God longs for our return and waits with open arms. Let us take action today by acknowledging our shortcomings and asking for God's mercy and love. God has been searching for us and awaits our return.

Submitted by Nnamani Chidinma from Enugu State, Nigeria.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for choosing us. We seek the path that leads to eternal life and pray for the courage never to depart from your side, in Jesus' name. Amen.