“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.” Psalm 27:4 ESV

This Psalm shows us that our proximity to God is key if we are to experience the intimacy of his love for us. As we draw near to him, he draws near to us. There are so many examples of this truth dotted throughout scripture and many of us would have our own personal experiences and testimonies of how God has drawn near, just as we take steps toward him. One of the most striking examples within Jesus’ teachings, is found in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).

After recklessly living away from his father, doing as he pleased according to his own desires, the younger son realises his wrongdoings and need for his Father’s mercy. Undignified, lost and hungry he turns back.

“And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’[b] 22 But the father said to his servants,[c] ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.” (Luke 15:20-24)

As the proximity between the prodigal son and his father was lessened, the true depth of the father’s love was revealed. The son is enveloped by his mercy and grace.

When we turn to God in humility and faith, in need of His mercy, He embraces us as we are. We don’t need to clean ourselves up before approaching God. Rather, through Jesus, we are embraced by the fullness of God’s love.  All that is required is that we draw near to Him. Proximity to God leads us to intimacy with Him.

When was the last time you let God embrace you with the fullness of his compassion, grace and mercy?

Is there something keeping you at a distance from Him? Pray and seek God’s grace and mercy in this area.

Surrender yourself afresh to the Lord, inviting him into all areas of your mind, heart and spirit.