Soft Hearts, Warm Hugs

The story of the prodigal son is timeless. I believe we all relate in a differing ways. Some of us were like the son; the one who left home without a backward glance, leaving heartache and pain in their wake. Many of our life lessons were learned the hard way. Looking back, we recognize just how bad our behavior was, and how much we hurt those who loved us.

This story is a wonderful example of  just how much we are loved by our parents. This young man didn't appreciate it at the time he left home, but I am certain he did once he felt his father's arms around him and heard the words of welcome and forgiveness. This act must have softened the young son's heart. The unconditional love expressed by the father must have changed things for the younger man forever. Wouldn't you love to know the rest of the story?

I can only imagine what the next few years were like for this family. Healing between the younger son and his father for sure, but what about the other son? Did his heart eventually soften toward this brother and father? I realize it might take a long time and a lot of work to mend the rift. I want to think that the father's soft heart would rub off and the family would be healed and changed forever.

Our lives do not always have fairy tale endings; and never without pain and hard work. But, the softer the heart, the warmer the hugs.

2 Samuel 11:27-12:13