The Forgiving Father

S - So he returned home to his father. And 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

O - Even though the son had sinned against his father and more than likely caused great grief to him, his father still welcomed him back home with open arms, an open heart and forgiveness.

A - What about me? How do I react when some hurts me? Do I treat those who hurt me the same way as this father did? Do I forgive with love? I wish I could give a definite yes to those questions but I know that is not the case. I tend to want to avoid those people to avoid the hurt they have caused me. I tend to retreat back into my comfort zone instead of stepping out and forgiving with love.

P - Lord, I want to forgive those who have hurt me and be a loving example like the father in this story. Help me to look past the wrong doings of others and reach out my hand in love and forgiveness. Amen.