Wednesday, February 17 - Day 1

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 85: 2, 4, 6; Luke 15: 20-24; Psalm 144:12, 15

In the first passage we hear the Psalmist plea for God to forgive the sins of His people as He has done in the past, to no longer be angry with us, to give us one more fresh start.  In the second passage Jesus tells us of a father whose son had sinned against him.  As the son approached, ready to confess his sins, his father gathered up the finest of things for him.  Even as the son spoke the father was giving directions to his servants for a celebration.  One could even wonder if the father heard the son, for he had long ago forgiven him and patiently waited for him to come home.  In the final passage the Psalmist, David, prays for the youth to grow up strong in the Lord.

Shortly after my oldest daughter graduated high school she moved away.  We would, on a rare occasion, get a phone call, but for the most part, we were cut off with no way to contact her.  I vividly remember the Thanksgiving that she called and asked if she could stop by on her way home from a trip.  I told her that would be great and that I would see her in a couple hours.  Four hours later I knew that she was not stopping.  Not a day would go by that I did not think about and pray for her.  My prayer was not that she return to me, but that she would come into a relationship with her heavenly father.  I knew if that relationship was restored it would only be a matter of time before our relationship would be too.  About a year and a half ago I got a friend request on facebook.  I clicked to see who it was.  It was my daughter.  I immediately accepted.  When we finally got together in person I was filled with joy and gave a big hug welcoming her home.  Fast forward a year.  On November 7, 2009 I had the honor of walking her down the isle at her wedding.

Father, You have forgiven us all our sins.  You wait patiently for each of Your children to return to You.  I know the pain and worry I felt for my daughter.  I cannot begin to imagine how You feel.  The joy I experienced when my daughter finally came home wiped it all away.  I know why You wait for Your children always seeking them out.  Thank you Lord for Your forgiveness.  Thank you that even as we confess our sins You have already moved past them.  May the love and joy that we experience through Your forgiveness overflow to our families, our city, our nation and our world.  Amen

Living Outrageously for Christ ~ Terry
180° Youth Ministries - Hus Presbyterian Church