It’s Time to Go On Mission

When the prodigal son left for a distant country he took his inheritance and left his mundane family work in pursuit of the pleasures of life. This story has perpetuated over and over ever since. In past generations this looked like graduates skipping town and heading west for the lights and highs of California. Today, it’s even easier than that. What’s worse? It’s not only youth making their escape. The distant country of today is the untamed limitless land of the internet. And it’s in reach at all times. 

Men young, old, middle-aged, married, single—the distant land doesn’t discriminate—it will take anyone, and take them quickly.  Why would a man care to be a good husband and father anymore? Why would a man pursue a call to a religious vocation? It’s hard work. And getting online to check sports scores, scroll endlessly, or even trade stocks is so much easier. 

Christ told the story of the prodigal son to the scribes and the pharisees. They were the older brother staying home. Simultaneously, Christ was standing before them as the exact opposite witness. He left the comforts of home and chased after the younger brother. He came to remind him how good the father is. He came ready to give up everything—comforts, security, respect, even life itself—for his younger brother. With great hopes to bring him, to bring every one of us, home.  

I know. I’ve heard it enough. Stay home. Get a job. Don’t waste your life. 

For what? Will you go in my place? 

My brothers have left their families. I must go and try to bring them home. And I must go now.