A Reflection On God’s Character

When I am trying to hide from God

The Father whom Jesus portrays in the story of the Prodigal Son is a God who runs to meet His children. Never mind the child’s past. His former rebellious arrogance is no longer an issue. Neither are the rags he’s wearing when he returns. The Father enthusiastically runs to His child and escorts him into His household.

Jesus’ portrayal of the Father is contrary to human nature and contrary to all our expectations. Like Adam and Eve in the Garden, we often hide from Him when we have sinned. We think he’ll be angry, not glad to see us.

But our God runs to us. That’s what the Incarnation and the Cross are all about. In spite of our rags, the lingering smell of the pigsty, the empty pockets, and the embarrassment that colors our faces, He throws His arms around us and kisses us. May we daily give thanks for such a Father. We can base our lives on the knowledge that we are irrevocably His.

While he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.

Luke 15:20