With June being the month we celebrate Father's Day, my thoughts turned to the Father -- heart of God. The story that Jesus told about the prodigal son is probably known to most of us. We miss the point, however, if we think the story is only about that renegade runaway. It is really about the father's heart of love, forgiveness and reconciliation. He couldn't wait to throw a party at his son's return. The Father -- heart of God is like that. He wants to throw a party for wandering, sinful children who come home; the children who come to their senses, admit their waywardness, and come asking for forgiveness. His love will turn no one away. A few years ago Stuart Townsend wrote the following wonderful song.
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss.
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
bring many sons to glory.
Behold the Man upon the cross,
My sin upon His shoulders.
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished.
His dying breath has brought me life.
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything;
No gifts, no power, no wisdom.
But I will boast in Jesus Christ:
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart:
His wounds have paid my ransom.
Is it time you came home to experience
the Father's love and forgiveness?
Pastor John Giesbrecht
