JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Eye on Integrity is based on Luke 15:20.

As the Prodigal Son returned home after a season of wild living and squandering his father’s wealth, what would happen when his father saw him?

Would he be angry? Would he refuse to talk to him? Or would he welcome him with open arms?

Verse 20 reveals the answer. “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.” This is great compassion, to welcome His son with joy and have a celebration on his behalf. This is the Father’s heart for those who earnestly seek His forgiveness.

The Father’s love for us inspires us to have a tender heart for others. Ephesians 4:32 says: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Walking with great compassion is a virtue to embrace for our lives in the Year of Integrity.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com