And there was also a cause of much sorrow among the Lamanites; for behold, they had many children who did grow up and began to wax strong in years, that they became for themselves, and were led away…

Luke 15:17-18

17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee…

A little comparison today in the description of two children or groups of children. 

The first is a group of Nephites who had seen the miracle of the sign of Jesus’s birth. Despite a great witness, they “became for themselves” and lost the light. Selfishness and self centeredness weakened them and they were led away. 

The other is the prodigal son. After his riotous, sinful living, he “came to himself” and turned to his father for forgiveness. 

We and our children have that same choice every day—“become for ourselves” or “come to ourselves.” It’s a matter of where our heart is really turned—inward or upward. 

I hope to always be “coming to myself,” recognizing my weakness, need for forgiveness, and total dependence on a Father who can save and forgive.