Hey, Church! 

After several weeks of lengthy, heavy Saturday personal worship writeups, today’s prepare-for-worship message will be brief! 

A few weeks ago, we introduced the song “A Forgiving God,” which beautifully portrays the heart of our loving Father. It reminds us that He welcomes His children with open arms—even after we have wandered far from Him like the prodigal.

We’ll be singing it again this Sunday, and I’d love for you to take time beforehand to enter into its story. Use the link to listen and follow along with the lyrics provided below. As you do, pay attention to any word or phrase that stands out to you. Let it settle in your heart.

Just as you would in your daily time of personal worship, slowly “lectio” your way through the song. Ask the Holy Spirit to highlight what He wants you to hear right now, and be open to the truth, comfort, or invitation He may be offering you through it.

A Forgiving God

I left my Father when I was young
Wanted the world so I spent it all
Searching for something I didn’t know
Was under the roof of my Father’s home
But He’s never broke a promise
Listen cuz He’s calling
Jesus says He wants ya
He’s a forgiving God
He’s a forgiving God
He’s a forgiving God
He’s a forgiving God

I’ve sinned against Him more ways than one
Didn’t deserve to be called His son
No greater love have I ever known
My Father ran to me said welcome home
And He’s never broke a promise
Listen cuz He’s calling
Jesus says He wants ya
He’s a forgiving God
No longer have to wander
Calling sons and daughters
After all He is the Father
He’s a forgiving God

He’s been sitting on the porch
Awaiting your arrival
You never left His heart
He’s always thinking of you
He’ll come running out to meet You
And throw His arms around you
He’s a forgiving God
You’ve been out on your own
Now it’s time to come home

Just run to Jesus
Just run to Jesus
Just run to Jesus

You’ve been out on your own
Now it’s time
You’ve been out on your own
Now it’s time to come home