Tenderness

Luke 15:20 (NIV) —

‘So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.’

Earlier this year, a friend recommended I read Brennan Mannings ‘Abba’s Child’. After completing the book, I found myself uncontrollably weeping whenever I was in a place of worship. It took me a few further weeks to process what had caused this, but eventually I landed on the text’s depiction of the unwavering love of God the Father. 

Theologically, I can (though please don’t test me) articulate the doctrine of the Trinity; however, when I reflect on my relational experiences, I have always found it easier to accept a relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Something about God the Father has never clicked in the same way. Mannings’ text helped break this barrier down, focussing on the love Abba Father has for all his children, just as they are. 

I was fortunate to be blessed with amazing earthly parents. To comprehend that I have another father who loves me even more seems impossible. I’m aware of my privilege in saying that. Maybe you’re reading this and have grown up without a father figure, or perhaps a painful relationship with one. Whatever your background is, maybe you find yourself struggling to conceptualise what your Father in heaven means to you.

When we look to this text, I can’t help but be stirred by the imagery of the Father running to his son, bundling him up in his arms, and kissing him. The son has come home, probably caked in mud, authentically mirroring his feelings. Yet the father cannot wait to envelop him in his love. 

God wants you to know his unchanging love for you today. He wants you to feel known, cherished, protected, wrapped up and so much more. God the Father loves us all in this way. We are his children in whom he is well pleased. 

Prayer - Father, thank you for the love you have for me. Open my eyes to this love so I may draw closer to you.