Blessing Our Community - Day 39

DAY 39 - Wednesday, May 8, 2024

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.

Scripture Insights
God is more than a judge casting a decision on our actions or a coach trying to improve our performance. The heart of God is of a parent who loves, delights in, and longs for his children. Jesus is trying to help us see that this is the fundamental nature of our Creator. God is judge and coach, yes, but above all— God is our loving Father.
Before the prodigal son cleaned up his behavior, changed his heart, or made amends for all his mistakes, his father saw him, was full of compassion, and joyously received him. When God’s children wander, God longs for us to return. As soon as the father saw the beginnings of the son’s movement toward him, the father did not hesitate to run the rest of the way to his son. This father loves and delights in his wayward son. Our God loves and delights in us!
If we begin to let this truth begin to trickle into our internal belief that this is our Creator’s heart toward us, it will have a profound impact on the way we see ourselves and others. God longs for your freedom from self-condemnation and the condemnation of others.

Today’s Prayer
Lord, help us to embrace our belovedness. Our shame and self-condemnation are repelled by this notion. We are not worthy, yet you who know us best also love us best. May we fully receive and fully extend this incredible grace.

What is the Spirit saying to you today?

—David Goodwin
Youth Pastor, Central Church of the Nazarene (Kansas)