Column by Bro. Terry Ivy
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him." (Luke 15:20) Regardless how far the youngest son had gone away from his Father, the Father was always looking for him to come home. That is the power of love. It is impossible to love and not care, even when the loved one is estranged or missing. Love glances its eyes upon the horizon and looks for the promise of return.
There are very bright streetlights near my home. In fact, they shine so bright that it appears there are car headlights about to 'round the corner' and turn down my street. Every time I look out the window, it reminds me of my boys driving home at night. Oh the sight of seeing their car lights turn down the street---it meant they were almost home!
As a father, I find myself thinking about all the nights sitting up and waiting to see them 'turn the corner,' and feeling a great sense of relief and thankfulness for their safe return. Regardless of the distance traveled, whether out of town or out of state, it was always good to see their lights nearing home. Fresh air always seemed to return to my lungs with the joy of knowing they were safe at home.
And yet, none of this compares to the joy our heavenly Father has as He is always casting His eyes upon the horizon and looking for His Children to 'return home.' We may have squandered our talents, gifts, or life. We may have walked away in frustration, failed again with doubt or unbelief. We may feel that God could never forgive us again. However, look up! As you run to the Father, He has been waiting the whole time to see you return. His loving and merciful eyes are always upon the horizon, looking for the sign of your path toward home.
God’s mercies are new every morning and His faithfulness is great. As I remember the joy of my boys returning home it makes me reflect upon a deeper meaning. Tears moisten my eyes as I think of how joyful our Father is every time we return to His love through repentance. His eyes cast no condemnation or anger toward us when we return… because His heart is too joyful. Like the father in Jesus’ parable, when we return home, the father plans a time of celebration. (Luke 15:22-23)
As believers, all of us have to 'turn this corner' many times through our life. The world seems dark, but the street lights are burning bright and the Father is waiting for us. He is pleading with us to return to the place where we belong, and He runs to us upon the first sign of seeing us approaching.
I miss my Dad very much. One day I will experience him embracing me in heaven. Oh, what a reunion. However, more than that, I look forward to meeting my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and hearing him say…Welcome home!
