Issue 747 – Returning – May 17, 2022

I was reminded this morning about a short-term mission trip I was on some years ago, along with my son Kyle. We accompanied a medical team to a closed country in South East Asia. It was quite a trip. Like most short-term trips, I think we gained more than we gave in many ways.

After a long trip home, my wife Kathy, and other son, Kris, met us at the airport with balloons and iced drinks (a slushie for Kyle and an iced cappuccino for me). Their smiling faces, and warm embraces (and the wonderfully cold beverages) made us feel like royalty.  

Genni, the wonder dog (in the photo), was thrilled that we got back. She had been in a depressed mood throughout our time away. She ran upstairs excitedly every time the answering machine went off during our absence because she could hear my voice on the recording.

There is something special about the unconditional love of a dog. Imagine what the world would be like if everyone had the same enthusiasm to see you and be with you that your favourite dog does. It would be a world where everyone felt their value.

That kind of situation will not happen this side of glory, but we can rejoice that Father loves us that much and is always there for us.

I am reminded of the story of the prodigal son. You likely know the story; the young man takes his inheritance, leaves home and squanders everything. This young man’s actions shamed not only his father but the family name and the entire village.

Finally broke, desperate and starving, the wastrel comes home. That is where I will pick up the story.

“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”‘ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. 

Luke 15:17-24

There is more to the story, and it is worthy of deeper study, but for this morning, we can look at the father’s delight in seeing his son return. He rejoiced that the boy had come home safe and sound. So it is with our heavenly Father, only He loves us with an even deeper love. His love is eternal and perfect.

Our Heavenly Father loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die on our behalf and gave us the Spirit to point us to Christ. He gave us His Word to teach us. Even the faith to be saved is a gift from Him.

Our Father rejoices when a lost child returns to Him. He created us for fellowship with Him and delights when we take the time to be with Him. We never have to be alone because He is always there to be with His children.  

Until next time, take some time to spend with Father.

Hallelu Yah (Praise God)

Be blessed. 

Kevin.

Gleanings From The Word.

Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life. 

Soli Deo Gloria (for the glory of God alone.)

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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the English Standard Version (ESV). Spelling modified to Canadian English as required. 

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