The Prodigal Son-Lesson Learned
The
story of the Prodigal Son holds so
much meaning for me. When I was a younger, I found myself wasting money and
living riotously. I was working as a nurse and making decent money. However, I
did not have the money management skills I needed to survive my first
experience with life on my own. It wasn’t long before I found myself broke, out
of work, and living in a way that was contrary to my Christian upbringing.
One
day, it came to me. Why was I living like this? Why was I lying around the
house hungry and wondering where my next meal was coming from when I could simply
get in my car and drive home? So, I tucked my tail between my legs and went
back home to my mother’s house.
When
I look back on my life, I realized that I had become like the prodigal son. I
had thought that I knew everything. I had rushed to leave home and do things on
my own. I had landed a great job that I didn’t appreciate. I had not learned to
budget, so I had blown my money on parties, clubs, and things I didn’t need.
And,
now, I have watched my oldest son do the same thing. He had a great job. He
made good money, but he didn’t plan for the future. He didn’t think about the
next day. He didn’t save any money. He spend all of his funds on wasteful
ventures and “so-called” friends. When I think about what he has thrown away, I
get angry. He should have known better. I had tried to teach him to budget and
how to save money, but it had all fallen on deaf ears.
Then,
I remember myself. I remember how I also wasted my money, my time, and my
loyalty on worthless friends. I remember me, and then I forgive.
I
can forgive my son’s stupidity because God and my mother forgave me. When I was
in the hog pen of life and sinking in despair, God nudged me and said “Go back
home to your mother’s house.” Thankfully, I went in time. And, just like the
prodigal son, I was not met with anger or scorn. I was met with love and
understanding.
So,
as I look at my son, I remember and I forgive. I remember how merciful our God
is. I remember that Christ went to the cross was my sins. What great lesson in
love is there than this?
