“I will heal their defection, says the Lord, I will love them freely.” (Hosea 14:5)
The prodigal son begins his homeward trek in the Old Testament. Israel insists on going its own way and falls into ruin. In despair, the people again hear God’s words: “return to me.” Tempted by our own strength, we “collapse through our guilt.” We are broken. But these shards are not swept aside. Humbled and cherished, we are lifted and healed.