So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.

~Luke 15:20 NLT

As an amateur photographer, I find the golden hour one of my favorite times to look for photo opportunities. It requires the sun to be visible towards the horizon during the sixty minutes before it sets or the sixty minutes after it rises. Everything is bathed in its golden glow, giving new character to objects touched by the sun’s rays.

One evening, I ventured to a park in our small town’s central area to take photos of the water tower. In addition to seeking out golden-hour photo shots, this would also satisfy another photographic technique: negative space. My trip did not disappoint. I was thrilled with the results.

But as I ambled around the playground, I heard that a little boy was missing. Two police vehicles rested nearby. The police and other community members had been searching the area, asking everyone they encountered if they’d seen a little boy about six years old.

I had not seen him, but I sent a prayer asking that the search be successful. A few minutes later, a third police car pulled up. An officer got out and carried a little boy over to the playground, where a man was anxiously pacing back and forth. Then I heard the enthusiastic cry, “Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!” as the officer handed the little boy over to the man. I could almost feel the intensity of the embrace that immediately encircled the little boy. The community’s sigh of relief was almost audible. It was a golden hour.

This episode reminded me of the enthusiasm with which our heavenly Father greets the return of any of His children who have wandered away. Everyone who witnesses this reunion rejoices. It is always a golden hour.

In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!

~Luke 15:7 NLT

If you are one who has wandered away, the Lord has open arms ready to embrace you.

Father God, thank You for always being eager to warmly welcome me back when I’ve wandered away. Holy Spirit, please whisper into the minds and hearts of Your wandering lost children with the invitation to come home.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2026: The Golden Hour: Anita van der Elst: All Rights Reserved.