And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. (Luke 15:20, New King James Version)
Several months ago, I received a welcome like this son must've received. Standing outside of a restaurant, I waited to be embraced by a group of friends, who over time have become family. While standing in that parking lot receiving warms hugs of welcome, I could picture the father of that lost son standing in anticipation. Like the group of friends I was embracing, it didn't matter how long the son had strayed. He was still welcomed home. Ladies, that's the Lord's cry for each of us. "my child, come home. Come home...where you belong." Have you strayed away from the Lord? Do you feel like you've went too far for Him to save you? Let me assure you, no place is to far. He stand ready and waiting to embrace you and say, "welcome home my child."
Father, thank you for welcoming us home. Thank You Lord that when we feel we've strayed to far, it's never to far from Your hand of mercy, grace and love. I pray for each reader. Bring her back to You...bring her back closer than she was before. In Jesus Name, amen.
There's nothing like a warm embrace from friends...and our heavenly Father, especially when we've strayed. Thank you for this sweet and powerful reminder, Jamie. <>
ReplyDeleteI love that picture--of the prodigal son AND of you and Nan!
ReplyDeleteI would love to have seen that embrace of you and MOM. Even greater is the ever recieving welcome hug from our FATHER.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful picture to capture those verses! "God" writing Jamie!
ReplyDeleteJamie, how well I remember that sweet day! I'll never forget it. I love you sweetheart.
ReplyDeleteJamie,
ReplyDeleteI love the way you speak about the sweet friends Jesus brings into our lives, and then quickly try our eyes back on the friend who sticks closer than a brother-or sister.
Thanks for always lifting up your friends, as you lift up Jesus!
Glenda