Thoughts on the Prodigal Son

I started a new Bible study today, and I was reading the story of the Prodigal Son. I've read the story many times, and I've always liked it, but today I saw it in a new way. What stood out to me is that the father welcomed his son back. "Filled with compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him" (Luke 15:20). The father was not only willing, but happy, to forgive! 
    When I sin, I know God will forgive me. But too often, I think of Him as being reluctant to forgive. The story of the Prodigal Son shows that God is eager to forgive.  He doesn't see us as a failure because we've messed up in the same way once again. We have freedom in God's forgiveness. Not freedom that says, "Oh, you can go back to your sin. It's okay," but freedom that says, "I sent my sinless Son to die in your place. He has taken your sin away from you, and I have given you His righteousness and purity. When I look at you, I don't see your sin and filth; I see beauty and purity and perfection. Because when I look at you, I see my Son."

Daughter of Light

Daughter of light
Whom I have carried
Held in my arms
Since the day you were born
Though darkness seems to cover you
Though pain envelops your heart
I've placed my light inside you
This light I'll ne'er remove
Through the darkest night
And deepest valley
I'll hold you tight
My Word is your lamp and light
Do not flee to darkness, precious daughter
Plunging your body in darkness
Will not bring you healing
But my heart will ache
As I feel your pain
Through the valley, don't let go
My death has killed your darkness
I've wrapped you in my blanket
Of glorious light
Never cease to sow my seed
Even in tears
You will reap in joy
Your wailing I will turn to dancing
I will clothe you with my joy
The night is almost over
The day is almost here
Hold on tight
My precious daughter of light


11.29.08