Key Verse:

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.”

— Luke 15:20

Rooted Truth:

Our Father does not wait with arms crossed in judgment—He runs to meet us with mercy.

Faith Story:

In the famous parable of the prodigal son, Jesus paints a picture of a father watching, waiting, and then running to welcome home a wayward child. This father doesn’t lecture first. He doesn’t demand an explanation. He wraps his son in love.

John Newton, the former slave trader turned hymn writer of Amazing Grace, knew this firsthand. After living in open rebellion, he encountered the mercy of God and was radically changed. He later wrote:

“I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be… But by the grace of God, I am what I am.”

God’s forgiveness isn’t reserved for those who earn it—it’s extended to those who return. Just like the prodigal’s father, our Heavenly Father is eager to restore, not to reject.

Scripture for Deeper Roots:

Psalm 103:10–12 – “He does not deal with us according to our sins… as far as the east is from the west…”

Micah 7:18 – “Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression…”

1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us…”

Daily Practice:

Is there something you’ve been holding back from God—ashamed to bring to Him? Confess it today. Let go of guilt and receive His embrace. Then, extend forgiveness to someone else who may need the same grace.

Daily Prayer:

Father, thank You for running toward me when I deserve distance. Your mercy humbles me and heals me. Help me receive Your forgiveness fully—and reflect it freely to others. Amen.

Deep Reflection:

What holds you back from receiving God’s forgiveness?

How do you picture God’s response when you return to Him?

Who needs your forgiveness today?

#DeeplyRooted #DailyRenewed

Devotions for a Grounded and Growing Faith