“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” (Luke 15:22).
Today we turn our attention to the Father in this moving story, which we know well as the Parable of the Prodigal Son. God watches over His children, knowing full well what the right path is for them and longing for them to return to Him. Because He is a divine Father and the source of all love and truth, He is free from the errors to which human parents are prone. God is always waiting for us. There is never a moment when we slip from His loving gaze.
In our parable, the prodigal son returns to his Father full of remorse. We hear no reproach from the Father, no accusation about why he squandered his inheritance or neglected his duty as a son.
No, our Heavenly Father shows His joy. It is a celebration for Him when the prodigal son returns, and it reminds us of Jesus’ words: “I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” (Luke 15:7)
In this gesture toward the prodigal son, our Heavenly Father reveals His heart to us. He embraces him with all His love and lets him know: Now you are home again. Let everything fall away from you; I will take you back completely. You have returned repentant, and that is a joy for Us. Now is the time for celebration.
Such is our Father, and everyone who sincerely repents will be welcomed in this way. The Father has been waiting for him, and He waits for many more to recognize and experience His love.