When he was yet a great way off

Luke 15 contains the parable of the prodigal son. In this story, a foolish son wastes his father's inheritance and while living with very little in a poverty-stricken state, decides to go back to his father and ask to be a servant. The Father embraces his son when that son returns and throws a great party.

Jesus is trying to send the message that God always welcomes his children home as they come to him. What stuck out to me today was this verse from Luke 15:

20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had ^acompassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

His father ran towards his son as soon as he saw his son coming towards him. I believe we're seeing that God will do things to help and lift us and that he forgives us as soon as we come to him. As an example, one day in the mission a couple of missionaries showed up while a lady was praying for help. It was the first time she'd prayed in a long time for help from God. Immediately she was sent messengers from God to teach her how to be happy and receive that help. I believe God does similar things for all of us.