(Isaiah 30:18) Lord Jesus, You are a patient God. Time and time again—in Scripture and in our lives with You—You show us example after example of Your ability and willingness to wait for us. When we’re lost, You wait for us to look in Your direction. When we’re lonely, You wait for us to realize that You’re standing by our side. When we sin and rebel against You, You wait for us to run back into Your arms. Father, in this same way, You have waited on ___. Every step of their journey, You’ve waited for them, patiently, to turn to You and walk into the life You’ve prepared and designed uniquely for them. Thank You, Father, for Your patience—especially in light of ___’s decision to look to You once again. In Your great mercy, continue to be patient with ___—and with me as well—as they learn what it means to follow in the footsteps of Your Son, Jesus. And as ___ grows and matures in You, through Your Holy Spirit, show them Your favor and Your marvelous love. Be gracious and merciful to them. Thank You, Yahweh, that You are a good and loving Father, waiting to restore Your relationships with Your children. Amen.