Every now and again there is a book that is truly worth reading for a particular segment of our population. The individuals I’m referring to are those of us who have a child who is a prodigal. A “prodigal” is a son or daughter who leaves home and behaves (living recklessly and extravagantly) with life’s resources to such a degree that life has become dis-functional to the extreme. They are those who have yet to come to their senses regarding life. Sometimes stuck in addiction and/or behavior that becomes seriously harmful to them and all that are close by.
The book I’m referring to is The Butterfly and the Stone: A son. A father. God’s love on a prodigal journey written by Dan Mayhew. If you have a prodigal you will resonate with the author throughout these pages and find your read to be one of emotion, inspiration, renewed encouragement and hope. As a wordsmith Dan shares the reality of a long time struggle with his son Ben (not his real name) living in a way that is not just difficult for him, but his family and those who know situation.
The chapters are short three to four page vignettes of the author’s spiritual pilgrimage illustrating some of his own prodigal tendencies in relationship to his Heavenly Father as he lives in the midst of a prodigal chaos.
On a personal level, I found this book impossible to read in one seating. Each chapter was an encounter with heart issues that required time to digest, as I looked inward to my own culpability in relationship to my prodigal. I came to the realization that to journey through this book was not for those who are faint of heart.
I was reminded that having a child prodigal is generally not a short term journey, more often it is long term and on occasion lifelong and gut wrenching. I connected with each page knowing that there was someone else who truly understood my own angst as we travel on this unchosen roller coaster of emotion. Along with the angst came a good deal of encouragement knowing that I was not riding solo, but a participant within a community.
This book is one of those that you probably will read more than once. I believe this book would be appropriate for a small group — even if you don’t have a prodigal. Chances are good you will and if not you know someone who is in that place.
I found this book to be valuable, introspective and encouraging and strongly recommend it – specifically if you find yourself with your own prodigal. Reading this book has bolstered my hope for the return of my prodigal
