“Bring the fattened calf, slaughter it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” And they began to celebrate” (Luke 15:23-24*).
After receiving his share of the inheritance, the son from the parable in Luke 15 leaves home and lives a reckless life. When he finds himself in need, he remembers his father again. He must have been ashamed of his behavior and wondered if his father would ever forgive him. But returning home is the best decision he can make. The father welcomes his lost son with joy, kissing him and throwing a celebration.
When we drift away from faith or hurt God, we may feel undeserving of His mercy. But this parable reminds us that God always forgives. He sent Lord Jesus Christ to redeem us from guilt, shame, unbelief, and unfaithfulness. We may think our sin can never be forgiven, but the Lord always awaits our return.
No matter how far we feel from God, He longs for us to return and waits for us with open arms. Let us take action today by acknowledging our weaknesses and seeking God's mercy and love. The Lord seeks us and waits for us to return to Him.
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2023-10-17
* Bible quotes are from Bible, New Translation from the Original Languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013