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. (Luke 15:20)
Picture the scene. The prodigal son in this story has finally figured out that he has been a jerk and made some terrible decisions that have hurt not only him, but the entire family. He decides to head home, not knowing the reception he would receive. To his amazement, his father sees him at a distance and runs to give him a hug and welcome his home. You can read the rest of the parable in Luke 15.
The main point is clearly that God, as our heavenly Father, forgives us when we ask in sincerity. But I think there is another application here regarding earthly relationships between children and parents. It is simply that children, when they do wrong, need forgiveness from parents. Withholding forgiveness from a child has both immediate negative consequences as well as detrimental impacts that can last a lifetime.
Are you withholding forgiveness from your child? If so, make it right today.
