It’s that time of year where we celebrate football and homecoming … remember that? When the former students would return to their alma mater and enjoy a special gathering, sometimes activities that commemorated their presence.
In the Bible, we read about a parable of family that was reunited in a similar fashion. Where brokenness was the situation and emptiness was once the current status. But then Restoration came down and fell upon the circumstances. It was best remembered in the actions of the Father running towards His once wayward son.
As the Father saw in the distance, His son returning home, He called for a grand celebration to be set in motion. He prepared for jubilation and rejoicing — before His son was even within reach. Maybe because the Father had already in His Heart touched and connected with His son in his heart.
The Father declares, “Welcome Home!”
Do you have need to hear these two precious words today? Or maybe you’ve been earnestly praying for a loved one … to come home. We drop to our knees with you, Friend. There’s power found right there.
If it’s a matter of you turning the corner … making the intentional decision to go 180 degrees from where you’ve recently been … the Father has been waiting to embrace you and start the celebration as you make that journey back home. No judgement. No scolding. No penance required. No price to pay — because Jesus already paid.
17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 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.
21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “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. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. Luke 15 17-24 NIV
“Come on home. We’ve been waiting for you.”
I love you to Heaven and Back, Girlfriend ~~
LindaRJohnson, TitusTwo Visionary
*Thank you to Bethel Music | Dante Brown | Naomi Raine for this.
Titus Two 