Experiencing God's Love

Luke 15:20

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.

What makes a runner a runner? How fast does a person have to run? Does a person have to run a certain number of days, months, or years? If a runner stops running for an extended period, is he still a runner?

What makes a person loved by God? Do we have to behave a certain way? Are there lists of things we are supposed to do? If we have taken roads that lead us away from Him, does He still love us?

Jesus told a parable about a son who completely and deliberately turned away from his father, bringing him great shame. The son ran off to live a wild life and only went back home because he faced great hardship when he ran out of money. He didn’t think his father would welcome him back, and he hoped he could simply be a servant in his house.

But we are told that as the son was journeying back, his father saw him while he was still a long way off; the father had been continually watching for the son’s return. Then the father ran to his son with gracious compassion. Before the son could get all of his words out, the father restored him and planned a celebration because he was back.

The love that the father has in this parable represents the love that God, our Father, has for us. God is willing and eager to welcome us into His arms regardless of where we have been or how long we have been gone. But whereas the father in the parable has remarkable love, God’s love is immeasurable. His love never changes, nor does it ever end.

We may debate the definition of runner, but the necessary conditions to be loved by God are not up for debate. God’s love is unconditional; there is nothing we can do to earn His love, nor is there anything we can do to lose it. God is love.

Have you wandered? Have you left Him? He is watching longingly for your return.

Gracious Father, just like the son in the parable, we confess that we have sinned against Heaven and against You. We are not worthy to be called Your children. But, Father, we know You love us with everlasting love. Your love is perfect and unconditional. Forgive us and restore us in that love. In Jesus’ name we pray…AMEN.