Parents Of A Prodigal

GRACIOUS FATHER, it’s happened on two occasions in church during a song. Each time I was sitting close to a married couple who walk with you, both concerned about an adult child of theirs who has wandered far from you.

The first time, I noticed that the father in front of me broke down at the words of a song about the biblical Prodigal Son returning home to his father. My friend began to silently weep, his shoulders and arms shaking with emotion. Comfort him, Father.

The second time, the song “Softly and Tenderly” was being sung. The words describe your Son Jesus’ loving call to each of us wanderers—a call to come home, to rest from the weariness of life, to choose a rich and satisfying life with Jesus. I could see the hurting couple next to me wiping their eyes. Be close to them, Father.

Please encourage the longing hearts of these parents and countless others like them. Give them love and patience as they wait, pray, and hope. I plead with you to bring your followers—people infused with your Spirit, people who will reflect your great mercy and love—into the lives of these children, graciously pointing these dearly loved sojourners back to you.

In the powerful name of Jesus, amen.