Dana nodded. “His roommates are finally paying their share of the rent, but the apartment is in a horrible part of town. He seems happy though.” Dana’s eyes misted over. “I’d almost rather he not be happy. I expected him to beg to come home by now, ready to give up partying, turn back to Christ, and go to college as he planned. He’s been gone over a year, and he’s still out there.”

“I’m so sorry. Maybe Pastor Bill’s daughter can give you some hope. It took five years, and she returned with two children whose father wanted nothing to do with them, but she’s home. And look at her now, mentoring teen moms.”

Dana wiped away a tear. “I keep reminding myself that the Bible doesn’t say how long the prodigal son stayed in that distant country.” Sharon hugged Dana. “And my prayer is that you’ll be waiting to run to David, just as that father ran to his son.”

Parents have a responsibility to invest their time and energy into helping their children grow physically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially, helping them develop healthy patterns that will carry over into adulthood. But there is no ironclad guarantee a child, teenager, or adult will not rebel. Many prodigals will come to their senses and return to the roots of their upbringing. A few will not, using their God-given freedom to continue making poor choices. Parents of prodigals need to maintain hope, give unconditional love, and be ready with open arms to welcome their prodigal home.