He's Not Listening?

“When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: ‘Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.’
“But the father wasn’t listening. He was calling to the servants, ‘Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a grain-fed heifer and roast it. We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have a wonderful time. - Luke 15:20-24 from The Message

Okay, so is God not listening to us sometimes? This version (The Message) seems to say so. Another version (The English Standard Version) puts it this way:
21And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'  22But the father said to his servants...
Same idea - the guilt stricken son is unloading his shame filled soul, and the Father doesn't even respond - He's too busy planning a celebration for His son who has come home!

Simple SPARK for today - whenever you feel the need to tell God what a lousy loser you are, how pathetic, how unworthy, how... oh just stop. He's probably not even listening. He LOVES you and is just glad you are home with Him safe and sound. Yes, own your wrongs. No, don't waste your time wallowing in guilt - Jesus has paid for it, and your Father isn't at all interested in beating you down - you are home with Him and He's wanting to celebrate redemption with you right now. Leave the guilt. Embrace your Father's love!
Spark. Big roaring fire to warm your heart.