Bible Reading: Luke 15:11–32

A Father’s Open Arms

One day, Jesus told a story about a father and his two sons.

The younger son said, “Father, I want my share of the family money now.”

The father sadly agreed, and the son traveled to a distant country.

At first, the son spent all his money on whatever he wanted. But soon, he had nothing left.

Then a famine came, and he became very hungry. He found work feeding pigs, but he was still hungry and lonely.

Finally, he thought,

“I will go home. I will tell my father I am sorry.”

So he began the long walk home.

While he was still far away, his father saw him coming.

The father did not wait for his son to reach the house.

He ran to him!

He hugged him tightly and welcomed him home with joy.

“My child has come home!” the father said.

The father gave him clean clothes, a ring, and sandals. Then he prepared a wonderful celebration.

The older brother became upset.

“I have worked hard all this time,” he said. “Why are we having a party for him?”

The father gently replied,

“My child, I love you too. Everything I have is yours. But today we celebrate because your brother was lost, and now he is found.”

Jesus told this story to help us understand God’s heart.

God is always ready to forgive. No matter how far we wander, God’s arms are open, welcoming us home with love and joy.

What Can We Learn?

God’s love is full of forgiveness and welcome. When we make mistakes and turn back to God, we are met with mercy, not rejection. We can also learn to forgive others with joyful hearts.

Love Like Francis and Clare

Welcome someone today. Include a new friend, forgive someone who has apologized, or remind someone that they belong.

Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for always welcoming us with love. Help us forgive others, celebrate new beginnings, and keep our hearts open to everyone.

Amen.

Remember This Verse

“This brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.” — Luke 15:32