When I was pastoring in the AZ White Mountains we placed a large sign above the outside doors going into the sanctuary, “Welcome Home!”  Visitors often shared that these words connected their hearts to God’s loving presence and  their bodies responded with tears.   The first words I enjoying speaking to begin Sunday worship are “Welcome home!”  In Jesus’ parable the father sees his his son a long distance away returning from the far country.  When he sees his son his heart is filled with compassion.  He runs to him,  throws his arms around him and kisses him.     My heart longs to be wanted and experience belonging and the  warm affection of someone glad to see me and be with me.      Home is where we belong and experience intimacy with Jesus, Holy Spirit and Abba Father.  We need others to speak these words  from God, “Welcome home my beloved!”