Sold out for prodigals

Last autumn, over 7,000 people attended Care for the Family's new event, 'Bringing Home the Prodigals', to hear a message of hope and reconciliation. The evening was both uplifting and challenging - it provided an opportunity for those concerned about prodigals to bring them before God in a climate of prayer and worship.

Last autumn, over 7,000 people attended Care for the Family's new event, 'Bringing Home the Prodigals', to hear a message of hope and reconciliation. The evening was both uplifting and challenging - it provided an opportunity for those concerned about prodigals to bring them before God in a climate of prayer and worship.

During the event, Rob Parsons shared his passion for prodigals and expressed his challenge to the Church to be ready for their return. Reflecting on the autumn tour, he describes how overwhelmed he was by the experience: "I will never forget the first 'Bringing Home the Prodigals' event in Glasgow - and especially the moment we invited people to lay the names of their prodigals at the foot of the cross."

Transforming
Rob continues: "One woman came first and then, suddenly, the front and side aisles were full of people waiting to bring those they love before God. We were to see that night after night, in venues that were sold out across the country. And it convinced me that something is going on in our nation with regard to our prodigals, that could not only answer the prayers for thousands of our loved ones, but transform the face of the Church in the UK."

This was evidently the highlight for many as at major venues around the country individuals wrote the names of their prodigals on a card and placed them in a basket at the foot of a large wooden cross. The symbolism of this simple act was clear to all. One person who attended said: "Although there was no magic in what we did, I felt the responsibility for my prodigal pass from me to God. The relief was tangible."

Atmosphere of hope
Each 'Bringing Home the Prodigals' evening was different - but each was packed with stories of hope and encouragement of how God is answering prayer. Many people found their faith reaffirmed and their hopes rekindled. One person commented: "I enjoyed hearing Rob and Dianne - their words were full of passion, warmth and humour. Both my husband and I went forward to place the names of our prodigals in the basket at the foot of the cross. It was very moving and there was a real atmosphere of worship, hope and a testimony to the power of prayer."

Rob and Dianne Parsons had a special message for parents. When children are faced with living up to the expectations of how others would have them behave, Rob urged parents, "Don't always be on their backs!" As parents, we must try to see the work that God is doing in their lives, nurturing and encouraging our children. It's also important for parents not to always blame themselves if their children do stray, Rob said. Parents are not solely responsible for the actions of their children. "You give it your best shot," he says, "but there are no guarantees."

Praying for our children
Dianne spoke of the importance of praying for our children, reassuring parents that even the most mumbled and anxious prayers are heard in heaven: "Our prayers are perfect by the time they get to God." She encouraged parents to pray for both the small and the major issues and to begin when their children are very young - in fact, before they are born.

During the event, Rob challenged churches to welcome prodigals home. He outlined the difficulties faced by prodigals who return and meet the bitter, elder brother. Sometimes there are no easy explanations to why prodigals leave the Church - but if we try to make them return on our terms, then we will face losing them again. The Church is called to the task of joyfully embracing prodigals who return - without judgment and condemnation.

Powerful message
Dave Bilbrough and his band sensitively led worship, creating an atmosphere likened to "coming home." During the evening, actor Rob Lacey told the parable of the prodigal son in a new and unusual, thought-provoking video drama. For many, seeing such a familiar tale in an unfamiliar context reinforced the powerful message of this old story.

The message throughout the evening was clear. Through worship and word, individuals were encouraged to give their prodigals to God - because even if we doubt and despair, he is able to bring them home.

Taken from Care for the Family magazine, January 2004