Free Mercy

"The quality of mercy is not strained;
  It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
  Upon the place beneath.  It is twice blest;
  It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.
  ....In the course of justice, none of us
  Should see salvation: we do pray for mercy."
    (Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice)

The father in Jesus' parable simply welcomes the prodigal son home, embraces him and has a party.  No hesitation.  No conditions.  God is always bathing us with love.  All we have to do is be open.  If we relied on justice, getting what we deserve, we would be lost.  "We do pray for mercy."