Scripture to Read: Luke 15:20-24
Today God reveals to us the fullness of His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. As we read Luke 15:20-24, we find the prodigal son coming to his father, but then Jesus shows us, first, the response of the father in Luke 15:20. If we’re not careful, we’ll miss the fact that the father had always known where his son was and what his son was going through. But the father never went to rescue his son, but he longingly waited for his son, looking for him to return home. When the father saw his son returning, the father felt compassion for his son, ran to him, embraced him, and kissed him. This was BEFORE the son had an opportunity to confess his sin. The son’s action to return home showed that his heart had already been changed. The son’s confession of his sin in Luke 15:21 was simply a confirmation of what had already happened within his heart. The father’s reaction is priceless for the father forgave his son, welcomed him by putting on him the best robe, a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. The father restored his son COMPLETELY to full status as his son. Then the father did not just feed his starving son, but the father had his servants prepare a feast and a huge celebration to welcome his son back home. God’s love for us is far more abundant than this father’s love for his son. God clothes us in His righteousness, puts his seal on us, through His Spirit, and calls us His own.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God reveal to you today about His love for you and ALL He has done for you through Christ?
2. How will you live differently knowing you are fully loved and accepted by your Heavenly Father?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!