I am a prodigal son.

 I Am a Prodigal Son

A Reflection on Luke 15:20-24

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. (Luke 15:20)

I am a prodigal son—the one who wandered far,

Who took the gift and squandered it, who chased the fleeting star.

I left my Father's house, I traded love for sin,

I thought I knew the way, but I was lost within.

I fed on empty husks, I longed for what was gone,

I wasted all I had, and found myself alone.

But in the depths of my despair, in the silence of my shame,

I remembered my Father's house, and I called upon His name.

I am a prodigal son—but I am coming home.

No longer worthy to be called Your own,

I will say, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against You.

I am no longer worthy to be called Your son. Make me like one of Your hired servants."

But while I was still a long way off, my Father saw me.

He did not wait for me to clean myself up,

He did not wait for me to earn my way back.

He ran to me. He threw His arms around me. He kissed me.

He clothed me in the best robe, He put a ring on my finger,

He called for a feast, He declared, "This is my son, who was lost and is found."

No longer a servant, but a son, restored and free.

The prodigal is home. The Father's love has won.

The journey back was long, but the welcome was greater.

The Father ran to me—no condemnation, no anger,

Just love that welcomed me home, just grace that made me whole.

I am a prodigal son—but I am home.

I am forgiven, I am restored, I am loved.

And I will never, ever wander again.

For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. (Luke 15:24)

Amen.