Daily Meditation: The Tears of the Father

DAILY MEDITATION The Tears of the Father July 4  Photo courtesy of Jim van Dijk The father in the story of the prodigal son suffered much. He saw his younger son leave, knowing the disappointments, rejections and abuses facing him. He saw his older son become angry and bitter, and was unable to offer him affection and support. A large part of the father's life has been waiting. He could not force his younger son to come home or his older son to let go of his resentments. Only they themselves could take the initiative to return. During these long years of waiting the father cried many tears and died many deaths. He was emptied out by suffering. But that emptiness had created a place of welcome for his sons when the time of their return came. We are called to become like that father. For further reflection... Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out... he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh's household heard about it.  Joseph said to his brothers, "I am Joseph!... I am your brother, Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt!  And now, do not be distressed..." - Genesis 45: 1-5, excerpts (NIV) Your response... When has waiting caused you pain or suffering? Comment on this Daily Meditation. Continue the Inspiration Purchase your copy of Henri Nouwen's book "Finding My Way Home".   Visit our Bookstore: United States | Canada | United Kingdom Consider our monthly giving program to sustain the ability to extend Henri's legacy and make his work available to those who seek spiritual formation and nourishment. Click here to sign up today. Text excerpts taken from Bread for the Journey, by Henri J.M. Nouwen, ©1997 HarperSanFrancisco. All Scripture from The Jerusalem Bible ©1966, 1967, and 1968 Darton, Longman & Todd and Doubleday & Co. Inc. Scripture chosen by L. Yeskoo. STAY CONNECTED:

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