(Luke 15:20) "And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." When we look at the story of the prodigal son the focus is mainly on the rebellion and the repentance of the son, but what we need to also see is "the love" of the Prodigal's Father. The Prodigal's Father is an excellent example of what a (F-A-T-H-E-R) should be. 1) He was (F)aithful; He was faithful to his God and to his family. 2) He was (A)ccessible; He was a man approachable and compassionate. 3) He was (T)rustworthy; His son knew that his father would forgive him and accept him back. 4) He was the (H)ead of his family; He was the leader, provider, and head problem solver in his home. 5) He was an (E)ample of godliness in his home; In this parable he represents the forgiveness, longsuffering, and agape love of God Our Father. 6) He was (R)esponsive; After his son returned, he responded in humility and acceptance of his son. Fathers, children need to know that you love them no matter what. A godly father is one that is involved personally in the life of his family, always watching and willing to demonstrate his love to them by more than just words. Thank God for Our Heavenly Father's Godly example. Fathers, may we like the Prodigal's Father practice His godliness!
