I said, ‘I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward your holy temple.’ The engulfing waters threatened me, the deep surrounded me; seaweed was wrapped around my head. To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.

Jonah 2

I said, ‘I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward your holy temple.’ The engulfing waters threatened me, the deep surrounded me; seaweed was wrapped around my head. To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit. v4-6

Jonah, like the Prodigal Son, ran from God, and yet God still welcomed him back.  We need to be restored daily...and our confession and repentance, like Jonah's and that of the Prodigal Son will facilitate this.  We may, by sins of either commission or omission, separate ourselves from God...but God gives us freedom from the sting of sin and death through reconciliation with His Son.

Greatest gift of all time.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You offer the greatest gift of all time - freedom from the sting of sin and death and reconciliation through Your Son.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not worth such a sacrifice - such love.  I miss the mark daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love Him.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.