Every night concerned friends, parents and teachers are wondering if the person in their thoughts and prayers is too far gone. In same cases, broken relationships only make this situation worse. Typically, the parent-child interaction is tense and brief with flare ups possible at any time. If this climate persists, doubt persuades parents to believe that they have lost their child, too far gone to salvage.
For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia, 2 Timothy 4:10.
In a letter to a first century pastor, the apostle Paul shares his concern about a fellow believer who abandoned his faith. While the details of Demas’ demise is unclear, it appears that this missionary regressed, craving certain aspects of life. Perhaps, Demas was merely going through a phase, something that he needed to do prior to committing fulltime to the ministry. The hardest part for any coach, friend, parent or teacher is letting go, giving this individual the room they need to come to their senses.
But the other one rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 We are suffering justly, because we are getting what we deserve for what we have done; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he was saying, “Jesus, [please] remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” – Luke 23:40-42
One of the characters in the Bible who could be considered too far gone is a criminal hanging on a cross next to Jesus. On the verge of death, there was no hope for his future. Nonetheless, this dire state inspired this man to seek security for the afterlife. If Jesus can welcome a criminal sentenced to death, then no one should be considered too far gone. For those currently enduring broken hearts, hang on to hope through prayer, asking God for common sense to break the stubborn hearts of a prodigal spirit. Until reconciliation arrives, trust God to get you through.
by Jay Mankus
