By Jen Powell

We were preparing for a visit from our adult prodigal son. The emotions waged war inside of me, a strange mix of excitement and pain.It was difficult to even put into words. I was eager to share our new home and life with him, but was I ready to see and hear things that would break my heart? I desperately wanted to hear of surrender to Jesus and recovery. I have prayed a thousand prayers for his salvation. Over and over I have asked God to intervene in his life and his choices. “Open his eyes, Lord! Soften his heart and do whatever is necessary to get a hold of this young man!”

Counting down the days before his visit I experienced sleepless nights. Thoughts were racing through my head and my prayers were increasing. As the anticipation built, I found myself wanting to protect my heart. My prayers became shallow until I was just asking God for a peaceful visit with no conflict – I didn’t want to be disappointed again. Fear raged within me regarding all the unknowns, but then something happened. Passion and courage rose up in me. Verses about fear (2 Timothy 1:7) and perseverance (Hosea 12:6) encouraged me. The Holy Spirit began to convict me, strengthen me, and comfort me.

How could I be expecting so little when I serve a God of miracles? The same God who parted the Red Sea, healed the lepers and raised the dead – the same God who wants none to perish and wants all to be saved (2 Peter 3:9). And this is the same God who lovingly and patiently pursued me – rescuing my life and my marriage. He has displayed His power in my life again and again. I have experienced miracles from God.

I refuse to limit God – I want more than that. I am asking God to perform a miracle in our son’s life – I believe that is what it is going to take. So I am asking again with a hopeful heart. I am asking God to show His power and demonstrate His love to our son for His glory and according to His Word. What a day of celebration it will be when our prodigal son returns to the loving arms of God and confesses his need for Jesus Christ (Luke 15:13-32). Limited and safe prayers leave little room for God to display His tremendous power. I want more than that!

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12)

Lord, thank you that You are faithful and patient. Thank you for Your mercy and compassion in my life. Strengthen me and give me the endurance to keep hoping, keep believing and keep praying to You, the God of miracles.