God's tender mercy!

(Matthew Henry)

"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

This parable is chiefly designed to set forth the grace and mercy of God to poor sinners who repent and return to Him, and His readiness to forgive them.

How lively are the images of God's tender mercy presented here!
His father saw the son - there were eyes of mercy;
he was filled with compassion for him - there was a heart of mercy;
he ran to meet him - there were feet of mercy;
he threw his arms around him - there were arms of mercy;
he kissed him - there were lips of mercy!

Oh, what a God of mercy He is!

Wonders of mercy - all mercy!

The prodigal came home in rags - and his father not only clothed him, but adorned him! "Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet." Luke 15:22

The prodigal came home hungry - and his father not only fed him, but feasted him! "Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate!" Luke 15:23

Oh, what a precious reception for one of the chief of sinners!