With a friendly welcome, as if the soul had been in pain and imprisoned, [Jesus] says sweetly ...

Then we hope that God has forgiven us our sins, and that it is true. Then our courteous Lord shows himself to the soul most merrily and with a glad expression. With a friendly welcome, as if the soul had been in pain and imprisoned, he says sweetly, “My darling, I am glad you have come to me. In all this misery I have ever been with you. Now you see my loving and we are made one in bliss.”

Julian of Norwich

This really says it all, doesn't it?