Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop 

Scripture
Luke 15:23-24: “And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.”

Reflection
In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, Jesus shares a powerful story of forgiveness, redemption, and unconditional love. The father’s joy and celebration upon his son’s return highlights the depth of God's grace and mercy towards us. Despite the son's waywardness and the squandering of his inheritance, the father eagerly welcomes him back with open arms and a feast.

This parable reminds us that no matter how far we stray, our Heavenly Father is always ready to receive us back with joy. His love is not conditional upon our actions but is rooted in His very nature. When we repent and return to Him, He celebrates our return, just as the father celebrated the return of his lost son.

God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding. He knows that in our brokenness and repentance, we find true life and restoration. By embracing us despite our failures, He shows us the path to true redemption and joy.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love and forgiveness. Help me to always turn back to You when I stray. Thank You for celebrating my return and for Your endless grace. Guide me to live a life that reflects Your love and mercy. Amen.

Thought for the Day
God’s wisdom and love are profound and all-encompassing. No matter how lost we feel, we can always return to Him and find forgiveness and celebration. Our Father knows best, and His arms are always open to welcome us back.