There are basic human needs that fulfill us physically, like water, food, and shelter, and others that we need to survive spiritually, mentally and emotionally. One of the basic human needs is the need to belong. As children of Christ, we are so blessed to belong in His family. But even though we belong in the family of an Almighty Being, it we are still human and there are times when we tend to stray away. Sometimes, especially in this world, we tend to want to belong to the world and society rather than in God’s Kingdom, just because it seems more easy. But the amazing thing about God is how He always has a way of leading us back to Him.
A young boy named Mike told his story to RightNow Media and how he was led astray by doubts and depression and attempted to run away from home out of fear of disappointing his father. This of course led his father to worry and go out to find him, and eventually, after hours of searching and praying he found his son in New York City. Rather than getting angry at Mike for running away or showing signs of rage and frustration, he reminded his son how much he truly loves him unconditionally and that all the more God loves Him. Mike’s father then says that this experience reminded him of the story of the Prodigal Son, and how in the end, all that mattered was that the father and son were once again together, where they belong.
Just like Mike, we are so blessed to have such a loving heavenly father who not only acknowledges our human need to belong, but fulfills it with his love and grace every single day and that no matter how far away we try to run away from Him, His love will always catch up to us. The story of the Prodigal Son is so much more than just the son who ran away, because it reflects the love of the Father. God truly loves us unconditionally, no matter what sins or burdens we bear. Essentially, there’s really no better place to belong than in God’s love.
(For more stories like Mike’s, register for a Fellowship One account and receive a free membership of RightNow Media!)
— Chelsea Mendoza
