Find My Way To The Father

I read a story about a young boy who went shopping with his father in a crowded department store. His dad instructed him to stay close and not to wander away, even if he saw something he liked. At first, the boy followed his father, but he soon became distracted when they passed through the toy department. Captivated by the cool cars, action figures, and sports equipment, he wandered away.

A few minutes later, he looked around and realized he couldn't find his father. Panic set in; he felt weak and disoriented. Every aisle looked similar, and the store seemed enormous and difficult to navigate.

Fear began to overtake him as panic set in. The boy remembered his father's instructions and started running from aisle to aisle, desperately searching for him.

Then, in the distance, he heard a familiar voice calling his name. Immediately, he turned and ran toward the sound. When he finally saw his father, he threw his arms around him, and his fear disappeared that very moment!

The father didn't scold him or make his wandering son feel bad; instead, he simply loved him with this embrace.  

Years later, the boy reflected on that moment and said, "The best part wasn't just that I found my father. The best part was realizing that he had been looking for me all along and welcomed me back with love."

Our story with our heavenly Father is very similar. He gives us specific commands along with many blessings. However, we are all prone to wandering! When we do, after coming to our senses, we become overwhelmed with fear and confusion as well.  Thankfully, like this little boy's dad, our heavenly Father is also looking for us as we make our way back to Him.  His voice -- His Word is calling and drawing us back into His presence and the purposes He has for us.  
 
The famous Parable of the Prodigal Son perfectly captures this truth. One of the memorable verses comes from Luke 15:20, which says, "And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him."

If you have strayed away, like the Prodigal Son, turn back to the Father in repentance. Remember that He is not only waiting for you, but is also coming toward you. Find your way back to the Father, knowing that His grace and love are greater than any detours or wrong turns we may take. And if you are where you need to be with the Father, take a moment to give thanks and serve His plans and purposes.