It Is Hard for a Prodigal When…

Written by a former prodigal

Nothing I say or do seems to shock or upset you.

“I forgive you” is uttered as often as my name.

“Don’t worry about it” is your answer to everything I have done.

You let me talk about you-know-who and you just smile.

I see you growing spiritually when I am living in sin.

You build me up to our kids so they still love me.

You have zipped your lips.

You are content living with almost nothing.

You agree to anything and everything I ask.

You depend on Jesus, and not on me, to be your provider.

I can’t push your buttons like I once did.

You make it impossible for me to hate you, or even to dislike you.

You seem to remember all the things I like.

You remind me that you will be waiting until you die.

I know the home I left could always be my refuge from the storms of life.

I suspect everyone is reminding you how I will never change, and adding how old dogs don’t learn new tricks. I am not a dog, and I am not out to learn tricks. I set out to be happy without you, but every time you show me unconditional love, instead of anger and attempting to get even, something is being changed in my heart, one small bit at a time.

People are also probably telling you not to be a doormat for me, but they have it all wrong. You are not being a doormat but a welcome home mat.

The prodigal said: “I never loved you.” The Lord said: “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”  Jeremiah 31:3 

The prodigal said: “You never satisfied me.” The Lord said: “You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.”  Psalm 145:16 

The prodigal said: “I am never coming back.” The Lord said: “Those who go out weeping carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.”  Psalm 126:6 

The prodigal said: “Stop praying for me!” The Lord said: “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”  Luke 6:28 

The prodigal said: “I hate you.” The Lord said: “Everyone who does evil hates the light… for fear that their deeds will be exposed.”  John 3:20 

The prodigal said: “You act so holy.” The Lord said: “For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”  1 Thessalonians 4:7 

The prodigal said: “You are a hypocrite.” The Lord said: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”  Matthew 7:1 

The prodigal said: “I don’t know what to do.” The Lord said: “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people “  Mark 1:17 

How do I know all those things wayward spouses say? Sadly, they have each been uttered in our home. Today, as you prepare to face another day without your spouse serving the Lord, look through the eyes of faith at the morning note your mate will leave you, in God’s timing.

Because He lives,