We all want to be seen. The hunger for it in our society can lead to social media addictions and a desire for fifteen minutes of fame. Do I have enough clicks? Maybe we inflate our accomplishments or sometimes we hide, controlling the pain of being unseen. None of these fulfills the deep desire to be truly known.
Fortunately, we have a God who sees. Tucked in the familiar story of the prodigal, we find a hint at our Father’s heart.
...but while he was still a long way off his father saw him. Luke 15:20
His father saw him. The power of that phrase really struck me. How many of us wish we were seen by our fathers, our family, our friends? Does anyone really know me? Anyone really see?
His father saw him. Yes, he saw him coming down the road, but he knew where he had been. He saw his pain, saw his shame. He knew all the bad parts and yet didn’t look away.
This is a parable on the character of God – the One who sees. He is watching for us. Waiting for us. And He sees us. Truly sees us. And if we are walking toward Him, He never looks away.
Do you feel far from God? Maybe even a long way off? He sees you. If you have turned back home, however hesitantly, whatever your story, He sees you – and is running to meet you. And He will accompany you on the rest of the journey home. What a joy to be truly seen by the One who loves us.
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