In his book, Velvet Elvis, Rob Bell says, "if people were taught more about who they are, they wouldn't have to be told what to do." What great insight! Sometimes the church and even youth ministry is too good at do's and don'ts rather than encouraging people to get to know Jesus. If we know Him, and saw ourselves as the wonderful people He sees us as, it wouldn't be about the do's and don'ts, but rather falling into His arms and letting ourselves be loved.

I've recently started reading a book entitled The Return of the Prodigal Son. In it the author speaks of us as prodigal sons, searching for our worth in the world. He believes that where we belong is in the arms of our father, who is willing to welcome us back. It is there that we find our value, and realize we are "loved of God."

Where are you? Are you resting in the arms of your Father, or vainly trying to get love from the world. The world's love is based on "if's": I'll love you if you are wealthy, good looking or cool. Your father loves you no matter what.