Yesterday, my son went missing after school, and I learned this beautiful truth.
First, if you're a parent, you probably know the sinking feeling of believing your child is lost, if even for a moment. I accidentally parked in the wrong place yesterday, and when I realized it and went to meet Jax at our usual spot, he was nowhere to be found.
I searched and searched. I called neighbors and friends. I went to the school. They called the police. My husband raced home from work. I feared the worst. I think one of the greatest descriptions of parenthood is that's it's like having your heart walking around outside your body.
Finally, someone spotted a young boy on one of the main streets by our house. I sped toward home and found him slumped over, walking in the rain. He thought I had forgotten him and decided to walk (a long way) home. A sense of relief flooded my body. I wasn't angry -- I knew that he did what he thought he should. Instead of going back into the school and asking for help, he tried to make on his own.
And in the moments that followed, my heavenly Father reminded me of the time that I tried to go my own way in my life. He wasn't showing up for me like I thought He should, so I took matters into my own hands, left the path, and tried to find Life elsewhere. And from that moment, I believe He was longing for me to return. He didn't turn away in anger no matter what I did; He pursued me in love, and He didn't stop until I was safe at home again.
The enemy loves to remind us of how far we've fallen or how much we have struggled. The shame of that can prevent us from experiencing the unconditional love of our Father. Just remember that next time you feel a little lost. Remind yourself that He will never leave your side, His love is eternal, and He is always eager to welcome you Home, just like a parent who won't quit until her child is safe in her arms.