Day 23 — The Runaway Son

“So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still in the distance, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.”

— Luke 15:20 (BSB)

Right after the story of the lost sheep, Jesus told another story, about a father and his two sons.

The younger son was tired of living at home. He went to his father and said, “Give me my share of the estate.” In other words, I want my part of your money now. I don’t want to wait until you die. It was a terribly rude and hurtful thing to say.

But the father gave him the money. The son packed up, moved to a faraway country and spent every penny on “wild living.” Parties, fun, whatever he wanted.

Then the money ran out. At the same time, a famine hit the land, and food became scarce. The son was so desperate that he took a job feeding pigs, and he was so hungry that even the pigs’ food looked good.

Finally, he “came to his senses.” He thought, My father’s servants have plenty of food, and here I am starving! I’ll go home and say, “Father, I have sinned. I’m not worthy to be called your son. Just let me be one of your servants.”

So he started the long walk home. And here’s the most amazing part of the story. “While he was still in the distance, his father saw him.” The father must have been watching the road, day after day, hoping his son would come home.

And when he saw him, the father ran. In those days, older men didn’t run. It wasn’t dignified. But this father didn’t care. He ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him, before the son could even finish his speech.

Then the father threw a party! He gave his son the best robe, a ring and new sandals. “This son of mine was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found!”

Jesus was telling us what God is like. No matter how far you’ve wandered, no matter what you’ve done, God is watching the road for you. When you turn back to Him, He doesn’t make you earn your way back. He runs to meet you.

Think about it: The son expected to be treated like a servant, but the father welcomed him as a son. What does that tell you about God?

Try this: If there’s something you’ve done that you’ve been hiding from God, tell Him about it today. He’s running to meet you.

Dear Father, thank You that You are like the father in Jesus’ story. Thank You that no matter how far I wander, You are watching for me and You run to welcome me home. I’m sorry for the times I’ve gone my own way. Thank You for loving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.