Ghosting and the Prodigal Son
Jesus’ Lesson on “Ghosting” and the Prodigal Son
Ever been ghosted? Or maybe you’ve done the ghosting? It’s that awkward, painful experience where someone just cuts off all communication without a word. It happens in friendships, relationships, and even within families. But what if we told you that ghosting isn’t a new phenomenon? In fact, there’s a story in the Bible that mirrors this modern-day dilemma: the parable of the prodigal son. So, here’s the gist. The prodigal son basically ghosted his family. He asked his dad for his share of the inheritance, took off to a faraway land, and lived it up. He partied hard, spent all his money, and eventually hit rock bottom. For years, he had no contact with his family. Total ghost mode.
But here’s where it gets interesting. When the prodigal son finally decided to return home, he was expecting the worst. He thought his father would be furious, maybe even disown him. But instead, his father welcomed him back with open arms, threw a huge party, and celebrated his return. No grudges, no lectures, just pure love and grace.
Now, let’s bring this back to our lives. Ghosting can leave us feeling hurt, confused, and rejected. It’s easy to hold onto those feelings and build walls around our hearts. But the parable of the prodigal son teaches us a different approach. It shows us the power of kindness and understanding, even when someone has cut off communication.
When someone ghosts you, it’s natural to feel angry or hurt. But instead of holding onto that negativity, try to channel the father’s response. Show grace, be open to reconciliation, and remember that everyone makes mistakes. This doesn’t mean you have to let people walk all over you, but it does mean keeping your heart open to the possibility of healing and forgiveness.
On the flip side, if you’re the one who has ghosted someone, take a lesson from the prodigal son. It’s never too late to reach out, apologize, and make amends. You might be surprised at the grace and love you receive in return.
So, next time you find yourself in a ghosting situation, think about the prodigal son. Whether you’re the one who left or the one who was left behind, there’s always room for mercy and a fresh start.
Scripture references: Luke 15:20, Luke 15:24, Romans 15:7, John 1:9