Many people are familiar with Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son, who squandered his inheritance before repentantly returning home to be welcomed and celebrated by his loving father (see Luke 15:11–32). Then there was the older brother, standing off to the side, wondering why his constancy and obedience had never been rewarded with a similar celebration. Well, that’s sort of how I felt. 

For years, I had watched my friends marry and start their families, and there I was, always trying to do my best and do the right thing, but still single. Where was my husband and family? Had I been overlooked? 

Of course not, and neither had the older brother. Recall what his father said to him: “Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.” That is some inheritance! Here’s how it worked out for me.