ANNA STIKER

How would I ever feel like I related to the Prodigal Son story? Me of all people? No way [insert emoji of the individual lifting up their hair]. Arrogant, I am very aware, but definitely how I felt growing up.

Recently, I read the book The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen, and it reshaped the way that I viewed the story as a whole. It opened up the idea that this story was relatable on every level.

I have been the Prodigal Son. This last year has been incredibly challenging for me from so many different aspects. I have questioned, yelled, pouted, and turned a cold shoulder on a God, who has only given me love. I have looked at His creation of me and called out the ways he has lied, fallen short or seemingly broken his promise. I’ve sought love in all the wrong places, leaving His home of love. My seeking unconditional love from anything but God is exactly what the Prodigal Son did.

I’ve also experienced what it’s like to be the Elder Son [just read my opening paragraph]. Exteriorly, I’ve behaved like the Elder Son. I’ve achieved, strived, and done exactly what was expected of me. But with this, I have easily brewed resentment, pride, and self-righteousness. I’ve withheld joy from others in situations out of jealousy. I’ve neglected congratulations because it was something I thought I deserved more.

Although I’ve experienced what it’s been like to have been both of these children, I’ve also felt the overwhelming love of the Father even in these moments. In His home, He has helped shape the way I see my neighbors and that each of us is unique and needed. That He doesn’t seek for me to continue competing, but to rest in who I am and who I’m becoming. To have confidence in the way He has knit me together, with no need to compare. In His home, it’s okay to ask questions and to wrestle through the weeds. He calls me His Beloved and tells me that there is no water or fire or mountain or valley that will stop His love for me. This is a home with open arms, consistent grace, and unparalleled, unwavering love.

I admit to being both sons, but I also have recognized that I’m called to be the likeness of God, who is Father and Mother to us. We are heirs and called to follow in His footsteps. This is the call upon our lives — to adorn compassion, extend unconditional love, and to elevate others, just as the Father has done for us.

Anna Stiker is a local physical therapist that far too many times has been asked if she is always this energetic. In the same breath, though, you’ll find her lifting weights, rock climbing, hiking, and traveling. While occasionally sitting down for tea and a warm fire.

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