We often approach God with preconceived ideas of how he will receive us. For example, if we have done something to grieve his heart, we may feel that he loves us but will be slow to forgive.<\/p>\n
Jesus clears this up with the parable of the prodigal son. The story goes that the young man \u201carose 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\u201d (Luke 15:20 NKJV).<\/i><\/p>\n
I believe the prodigal came home because of his history with his father. He knew his father\u2019s character. He had been a much-loved son and was desperately hoping that he would not be upbraided or condemned for his sins if he returned.<\/p>\n
Notice how the prodigal\u2019s father received him in his pitiful condition. The young man was intent on offering a heartfelt confession to his dad. Yet when they came face to face, he didn\u2019t even get a chance to fully confess. His father interrupted him by running up to him and embracing him.<\/p>\n
The young man was only able to blurt out the beginning of his speech. \u201cThe son said to him, \u2018Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son\u2019\u201d (Luke 15:21).<\/i><\/p>\n
His father didn\u2019t even wait for him to finish. To him, his son\u2019s sin had already been settled. The father\u2019s only response was to issue orders to his servants. \u201cPut a robe on my son, a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. Prepare a feast! We are going to celebrate. Everyone rejoice! My son is home.\u201d He knew his son\u2019s heart. He knew he had fully repented.<\/p>\n
Sin wasn\u2019t the issue to this father. The only issue in his mind was love. He wanted his boy to know he was accepted even before he could utter a confession. That is the point God wants to make to us all. His love is greater than all of our sins. \u201cThe goodness of God leads you to repentance\u201d (Romans 2:4).<\/i><\/p>\n