‘Yes, what’s that? Someone’s coming!’ When a father sees his son from a distance, he immediately runs towards him with open arms. Even before his son can offer an apology, he embraces and kisses him: ‘Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be your son!’

His son honestly confesses that he has forsaken and hurt his father. This is what repentance looks like.

The father pays no heed to his son’s dishevelled, filthy and foul-smelling state. He rejoices with all his heart at his child’s return and commands his servants: ‘Bring the best festive robe here and put it on him, and put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet. »

Instead of showering his son with reproaches, the father showers him with expressions of love.

The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.

Jeremiah 31, 3

Because God loves you so much, he welcomes you just the same with open arms! No matter what has happened, no matter how dirty you are. He loves you just as you are!

Bible passage on this topic: Luke 15,11-32