The Power of a Parent's Love

John was in so much trouble that one day his parents announced to him, "John, your lifestyle is disrupting our entire family. You have to move out. If you want to meet us and talk, we'll meet you anywhere, but you can no longer live here."

One night after the son left, the father learned that his son had been arrested, but when he went to the police station, he did not find him. Puzzled, he went to a crack house. The door was unlocked, so he walked in passing various states of dress and undress.

Then he saw his son. The dad leaned down and kissed his son. Then without saying a word, he walked out.

Eight months later, their son called. "Can we meet for lunch?"

Thrilled his parents responded, "Yes! Just tell us when and where to meet you."

They met and to their surprise he appeared clean shaven and well groomed.

"Why don't you ask me the question?" the son said.

"What question?"

"What turned me around."

They hadn't thought to ask, so they asked. He replied, "Remember the night you kissed me? I wasn't asleep."

Dear Jesus, help us to remember that sincere love is the most powerful message of all.

"Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance" (1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT).

.Aletha