March 22, 2025: A Call to Return and Experience Father's Love

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One of the most beautiful stories in the Bible is the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). It is a powerful illustration of God's boundless, unconditional love for us, no matter how far we stray. This story reminds us that no sin is too great, no mistake too severe, to separate us from the love of our Heavenly Father.

The Journey Away from Home

The parable begins with a young man who demands his inheritance from his father and leaves home in pursuit of worldly pleasures. He squanders everything in reckless living, only to find himself destitute, hungry, and alone. When famine strikes, he is left with nothing and is forced to take up a humiliating job feeding pigs.

How often do we chase after the fleeting pleasures of life, believing they will satisfy us, only to be left empty and broken? The prodigal son’s story mirrors our own spiritual journeys when we turn away from God in pursuit of our own desires.

A Moment of Realization

When the young man reaches rock bottom, he remembers his father’s house, where even the servants have more than enough to eat. With a repentant heart, he decides to return home, hoping for mercy. He rehearses his words: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (Luke 15:18-19).

This moment of realization is crucial. It shows the importance of repentance—of turning back to God, acknowledging our failures, and seeking His grace.

The Father’s Unfathomable Love

What happens next is breathtaking. The father, who has been waiting and watching, sees his son from a distance and runs to him. He embraces him, clothes him with the best robe, and throws a grand feast to celebrate his return.

This is the essence of God’s love. He does not wait for us to prove our worth or earn His forgiveness. The moment we take a step towards Him, He comes running to us with open arms.

Many of us carry guilt and shame, believing we are unworthy of God’s love. But the prodigal son’s story assures us that God is always ready to welcome us back. He rejoices over every sinner who repents (Luke 15:7).

The Elder Brother’s Response

The elder brother, upon seeing the celebration, becomes angry and resentful. He cannot understand how the father can so freely forgive his wayward brother. This part of the story warns us against self-righteousness. Sometimes, we forget that God’s grace is for everyone.

A Call to Return

No matter where we are in life, the Father’s arms remain open. He longs for us to return to Him, not as servants, but as beloved children. His love is deeper than our failures, greater than our regrets, and stronger than our sins.

If you have wandered away, know that He is calling you back today. Will you take that step towards home?

Let us embrace the Father's unfathomable love and walk in His grace!

 

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