Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. (Psalm 51: 10-12)

Redemption is literally to purchase again. Something valuable that has been lost or given away is reclaimed. When the loan is repaid you may redeem your collateral from the pawn shop.

It is taught that we have been endowed with much of the same spirit, wisdom, and creative power of God. In the words of the Eighth Psalm we are "little less than angels." This is our birthright, our origin, our essential character.

Many of us have treated this birthright as a prodigal son or daughter. We have misused it until we have seemed to lose it. I have often forgotten my true home and purpose.

In the life and teachings of Jesus we have been reminded. We are invited to return to our origins and to redeem our purposes. We may have lost our way, but we may always choose to return and reclaim what we cannot really give away.

And we may choose to do so today.

Above is Prodigal Son by Oleg Korolev. (This site may be difficult and time-consuming for some users)