Waiting for the Prodigal
Waiting for the Prodigal
His father saw him and was filled with compassion. (Luke 15:20)
When Children Wander
For many dads the experience of parenting is a jumbled mix of great memories and current heartbreak. The child who used to present you with crayon works of art, who could not wait for you to get home from work, is now aloof or flat-out missing. Harsh words were thrown down, doors were slammed, walls went up, and the relationship finally seemed to crash and burn. Emotionally, your son or daughter has moved a million miles away from you and from God. You have lurched between sadness and anger, regret and recrimination. But mostly you hurt and wonder if it will ever end.
You Are Not Alone
Dad, you are hardly alone. The story of the prodigal son has been played out in countless homes for centuries. If you have been waiting, perhaps for years, it can seem like all hope is lost. But it isn’t. The parable is not only about a wandering son but also about a waiting father. Keep praying, keep entrusting your kid to God, and keep the door open for a restored relationship.
Even if your child has sinned in a spectacular way, keep your heart soft. Your heavenly Father never closed His heart to you in your own season of wandering. He waited patiently for you to come to your senses. Ask God to work in your heart as well as in the heart of your prodigal. Don’t despair. The story isn’t over yet.
Bottom Line
Your kid is free to be sinful and rebellious, but God is free to orchestrate circumstances that lead to repentance. Keep asking Him to do His restoring work.