"Runaways, Get Free Ride Home

 •  2 min. read  •  grade level: 5
That’s what the sign said: “Runaways, get free ride home. Call 000-0000.” What a welcome word to a lost and lonely runaway! Think of one who has, in a moment of rebellion perhaps, left a comfortable home and loving family to "be independent," "to live his own life," "to do his own thing."
Then think of that one as the glamor of independence wears off in the daily effort to obtain the necessities of life. Cold and hungry and alone, home begins to look more inviting all the time.
But—how can he return? He left in anger—will he be received? He has no money—how can he travel?
And then that wonderful sign: "Runaways, get free ride home!"
Hardly believing the good news, he finally gathers the courage to go to the nearest phone and dial the toll-free number.
A voice answers, a warm and caring voice, and arrangements are made, transportation is provided, and then—HOME. The sign told the truth; the promise was real.
We are all, in one sense, runaways. The Bible says, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way." Isa. 53:66All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. (Isaiah 53:6).
Like the runaway, we have nothing with which to pay our way home. Lost, lonely, and in despair, what hope is there for us?
Just where we are, just as we are, we can "call... upon Him while He is near," because "the Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth.... He also will hear their cry, and will save them." Isa. 55:66Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: (Isaiah 55:6) and Psa. 145:18,1918The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. 19He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them. (Psalm 145:18‑19).
The Lord Jesus will never, never refuse to accept the penitent runaway while the day of grace lasts. Even now He is waiting and longing to share with you all the love and light and joy of His Father's house. Won't you turn back to Him and receive your own "free ride home"?
Oh, turn ye! Oh, turn ye, for why will you die,
When God in great mercy is coming so nigh?
Now Jesus invites you; the Spirit says, "Come,"
And angels are waiting to welcome you home!