In Jesus’ story of the prodigal son, it’s important to notice the father’s response: “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him . . . The father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate’” (Luke 15:20, 22-23 NIV).

The prodigal’s father is like your heavenly Father. No matter what you’ve done, when you come home to God, he wraps you in his love. He gives you his best and says, “All is forgiven! Go get the robe. Go get the shoes. Let’s have a feast! My child has returned to me.”

You come home to celebration, not condemnation. And God wants you to join him in celebration by giving him your praise.

You can celebrate your spiritual transformation by simply saying, “Thank you, God. Thank you for your grace, love, and goodness. I lift up my praise to you!”

The Bible says in Psalm 68:4, “Sing to God, sing praises to his name; lift up a song to him . . . his name is the Lord” (ESV).

One of the easiest ways to celebrate your own transformation is by singing at church. Worship songs give you a chance to celebrate what God has done in your life and thank him.

“But I’m not a singer!” you might say. I have good news: The Bible doesn’t say to make your singing sound pretty. It says to make your singing joyful. You can do that! Anybody can make a joyful noise.

Sing your praise to God—not just for who he is but also for the spiritual transformation he’s made in your life. Commit to celebrating God’s unconditional love and grace throughout the new year. He welcomes you home with open arms.