Scripture:

“…his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” (Luke 15:20-24)

Thought for the day:

“Know thyself!” Without going into the history of the term attributed to, but not coined by, Socrates, it is worth pondering. I am humbled at the extravagance of God’s love when I ponder the secrets of my own heart. How many of us attempt to look good on the outside while there is a mess of turmoil on the inside? Do you have moments when you aren’t proud of your thoughts or actions? I do. Can you think of times when you have lashed out because your heart was hurt by another? I can. Think of how amazing God’s gift of love is in our life. Despite of our treatment of God and others, God still opens his arms love to our embrace. What an incredible God!

Prayer for the day:

Dear God, I am not always (or even often) the person you created me to be and yet you love me. When I am the least lovable you open your arms to me. Thank you, Lord! Help me learn to love as you do! Amen.