Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.’ So, he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So, they began to celebrate.”
– Luke 15:17-24
Devotion
The son came to his senses! He realized that life with his father was not so bad after all. So, he swallowed his pride and made his way toward home. At this point, the father’s actions are quite surprising. We see him out on the road eagerly awaiting his son’s return. Instead of anger and judgment, the son is met with compassion, a warm embrace and kisses. Instead of punishment, the father lavishes him with gifts and a welcome home party. His son was “lost,” and now he is found!
The Big Question
In many ways, this parable is the Bible in miniature. Does the father’s response to the prodigal’s return surprise you? If so, why? If not, why not? What does this parable reveal to us about the true heart of our heavenly Father? What does this parable teach us about the return of wayward sinners to our heavenly Father? Have you experienced the warm embrace of God’s love, mercy and forgiveness?
Conclude your time in prayer and silence, reflecting on what God revealed to you today.