The Prodigal Son

At least one time in our own lives, we each have felt the urge to leave home, leave all our cares, our troubles, behind us.

Our son, Nathan, at the tender age of three, decided he was leaving home. As I watched, he walked midway to the end of the driveway, turned around, and asked wistfully, "Momma, are you coming with me?" Funny, then, but would not be today.

In the story related by Luke, this youngest son felt like he was not needed, perhaps, not wanted, even. His older brother had been taught all the ropes by his father, was perfectly capable of tending his father's estate, without any help from him, and probably had expressed that, as well. The younger son, most likely, felt like there were other opportunities for him to seek, where he could be appreciated, and with pride, he stalks off to show them.

As hard times began to fall upon this son, he remembered his father's guidance, his father's ability to provide generously for him. He then decided to turn his life around, go back home, and if nothing else, become a hired hand upon his father's estate. He was, in essence, swallowing his pride and admitting that he had been wrong, made a mistake.

Sometimes, those whom we love can make us feel inadequate, like we cannot measure up.

Perhaps, you have faced this dilemma in life and like the younger son, have turned away in resentment and anger.

It doesn't matter how long you've been away or even what your current circumstances may be, your Father God has been calling your name, and just like the father in this story, He is standing upon His heavenly estate, watching that road which you are traveling on, anticipating your turn around, so that He can embrace You with His eternal love, and call for the sound of rejoicing in the celestial realms of Glory.

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"My son, I'm calling you.
Do you not hear Me calling your name?
For many years, I have waited, as you have wandered,
Yet, here Alone, I remain.

I've watched as you have neglected,
to turn upon the right path.
I've sadly stood by and remained patient with you,
and have not unleashed My wrath.

My heart has been so saddened,
I have fought back all the tears,
as I have daily walked beside you, watching you struggle,
while gripped in the spirit of fear.

O, My son, I love you,
please harken to My voice today.
Allow Me to love, guide, and provide for you,
so that you will stumble no more, upon Life's way."

(c) Sandra Lewis Pringle
All Rights Reserved
SLPEnt1@aol.com

No use of this poem is authorized, without the permission of the Author. Thank you.