Loving a Prodigal: Drama Class

Once a month I write a letter to the wonderful Prayer for Prodigals community I am part of.  Often those letters, though specific to those who love a prodigal, apply to any or all of us in the challenging circumstances of life.   

Dear Lover of Prodigals,

Drama!

I have experienced plenty of it.  I know you have too.

Most of us bring plenty of drama into our own lives.  And if we have or have had teens, we have watched it up close and personal.But when you love a prodigal, drama seems to be a staple ingredient to life.  Such performances:

“I have to have it.  Everyone does. You never let me have what I want.  I’ll just get it some other way.”

“That’s not fair.  You always take her side.  You love her more.”

“That teacher is out to get me.  He always accuses me.  But I didn’t do it.”

“I will do what I want.  Just try and stop me.”

“I hate you.  I’m leaving.  You will never see me again.”

When the teen years pass, you think you can catch your breath—surely acting class is over.  But with a prodigal it can go on for years, with more subtlety and finesse.

Even when your loved one seems to have turned the corner and begins to live a more authentic life, you discover that the drama continues—in the residuals.  Past choices, activities and relationships can—and often do--still create complications, cause fireworks, stimulate fear, stir up memories….Will the show ever stop!  Perhaps not.  I marvel at how often the past returns to haunt and taunt our prodigal.  We can’t control the people who come back on the scene.  We can’t prevent the consequences of those former choices.  And we have a relentless enemy who still wants to destroy our loved one.But, of course, we have a God who has defeated that enemy.  Who extends mercy and grace.  Who loves no matter what we do or don’t do.  And who gives us this wonderful promise:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid….I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  (John 14:27; 16:33)

So when the curtain rises again and the drama begins anew, lean into His peace.

For less drama in our lives,

Judy

If you would be interested in requesting prayer for a prodigal loved one, or being a part of our wonderful praying community, respond in comments or write to me at PrayerforProdigals at gmaildotcom.

c2014 Judy Douglass