Who is there like you, the God who removes guilt and pardons sin? (Micah 7:18)
Do these verses seem to good to be true? If you’re having trouble believing that God is so merciful, try to picture him for a moment. Imagine him seated in glory and majesty, surrounded by myriads of angels. He is complete in himself, knowing all things seen and unseen, and yet he made a vast universe so that he could shower his creation with love.
Yet for all his grandeur, when he looks at you, his gaze of love makes you feel as if you were the only person in the world.
Like the father of the prodigal son, God is waiting just for you, a robe draped on his arm, a ring in his hand, and sandals at his feet (Luke 15:11-32).
He is looking far off in the distance, patiently hoping for a glimpse of you on the horizon. When he sees you, he doesn’t hesitate but runs to you with arms outstretched. He doesn’t ask where you’ve been; he simply rejoices that you have come to him. He embraces you and calls you his beloved.
This Father knows all your sins and weaknesses. But as you open your mouth to confess them, he stops you. He has already removed your transgressions as far as the east is from the west. As the heavens are high above the earth, so is his kindness toward you (Psalm 103:11-12). He wraps his robe of righteousness around your shoulders. He slips the ring of his covenant love on your finger, and puts sandals on your feet, to remind that you are part of his family. You are overwhelmed as you realize that he has never stopped loving you. Your name is written on the palms of his hands (Isaiah 49:16).
Now the Father leads you into his mansion, where you hear music, laughter, and the sounds of celebration. You are welcome here—this is your home! You feel his firm grasp on your shoulder, and you know that he will never leave you. He seats you at a table where a feast has been prepared especially for you.
May your heart overflow with joy today, knowing that you are secure in your Father’s house!
