‘”But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet’ (Luke 15:22).

Let’s consider the awesome benefits awaiting every penitent sinner. Firstly, God responds with speed to those who draw near to Him. Heaven doesn’t dither over the salvation of those whose hearts long for Him. Neither should we! Secondly, God re-clothes every repentant sinner in brand new royal robes, for so means the term stolē (Gk for robe). He gives them beauty for ashes and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isa 61:3). He literally gives every contrite villain a spiritual, royal makeover. Thirdly, the new saint gets the Holy Spirit’s seal (ring), a status of family identity and sonship as opposed to that of an alien & slave (Ep 1:13). Fourthly, God adorns the believer’s feet with spiritual shoes–the readiness of the Gospel of peace (Ep 6:15). Note that in ancient times slaves were typically barefooted. Make no mistake dear friend, our Father will not leave us in our slavish, dirty and defeated state! In Scripture one’s feet also signify stability, dominion, direction and purity, inter alia (see Ps 40:2; 91:13; 119:105; Ex 3:5). May your feet be established on the rock; may you tread upon every satanic serpent and scorpion and may every step of yours be ordered by the Lord! Pray that your unsaved neighbour also comes in to share these Gospel benefits and more.

Pastor Josh