Whether family, friends, school or colleagues, a reunion can bring joy. I have never attended a high school reunion. I graduated with over 600 other students. While I would love to reconnect with some of them, attending a reunion has never been compelling. However a family reunion, I’m all in.

This summer we are having our first ever summer staff reunion for a summer ministry in Tennessee I worked with during college. Many of these folks I haven’t seen in 30ish years, and to me they are family. Several of us have loosely kept in touch through social media, but I can’t wait to hug some necks.

We have already started reminiscing about the old days. Messages are going back and forth, plane ticket is purchased, and plans are being set. I don’t know who all I will get to see, but each one will bring me joy.

^20-21 “When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: ‘Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.’ ^22-24 “But the father wasn’t listening. He was calling to the servants, ‘Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a prize-winning heifer and roast it. We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have a wonderful time. (Luke 15: 20-24 MSG).

The same is true with God. When we choose to reunite and allow him back into our lives, there is a party. There is joy. There is a warm embrace filled with grace, forgiveness and unconditional love. It doesn’t matter what we have done. We are welcomed back!

Do you feel welcome? Have you experienced the warm embrace? What is holding you back? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.