How can this be?
I'm lost, rebellious, angry, impulsive. I took Your inheritance and squandered it--recklessly, heedlessly, foolishly. I used what You've given me on selfish, worthless, VILE things.
And when these things were gone, all that remained was the foul, nauseating stench of a pig pen. My growling belly was left to an inheritance of filthy pig remains. It's what I deserved and what I earned.
But when i finally got up, covered in pig droppings, and stumbled toward You, You ran toward me. I don't know why--there was absolutely nothing attractive or worthy about me. The best that I had to offer You was the filthy rags on my back. But--You didn't want to take from me. You wanted to give. Because of Your great love, You ran to me and embraced me--protecting me from those who thought they were my judges. Then, after I fell on my face before You in utter shame, You picked me up, bathed me, and clothed me in rich robes. You killed one of Your own cows for the celebration feast. You gave me Your ring, willing to claim me as Your own even after all I had done to hurt You and rebel from You.
Who on earth is worthy of such love? I am not. But You gave it just the same. You alone, God, are worthy of all that I have to give. May all the earth see that You alone are good, beautiful, and holy. May I show others the same love You have shown to me.
"... But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20
