But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was moved with pity and tenderness [for him]; and he ran and embraced him and kissed him [fervently]. – Luke 15:20, AMP

There are few things on the planet sweeter than devoted love. Most people know this, which is why stories like Fred’s, where such love is lost, is so touching and so easy to identify with.

On a whim, 96-year old Fred Stobaugh entered Green Shoe Studio’s singer/songwriter contest as a way of remembering and honoring his recently deceased wife of 73 years. Having dated for two years prior to marrying, they spent three quarters of a century together, facing life’s joys and sorrows hand in hand.

After Fred mailed off his entry, he forgot about it, thinking he had no chance to win the contest. Indeed, he didn’t win. But, he won something better – an all expenses paid, professional recording of his love song to his wife, Lorraine. Now, the world shares in Fred’s memories, both through the Vimeo video above and through the song that anyone can download from iTunes. Sweet Lorraine has a sweet husband, a man filled with love and adoration for his lifelong partner.

What does Fred’s story have to do with us? God loves His children with the same devoted love that Fred has for Lorraine, and when we depart from Him to seek our own path, He sorrows. If you don’t believe me, then take a few moments to read the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. The father’s rejoicing at the return of his wayward son was matched only by the sorrow he no doubt endured while his son was away.

God’s love stretches forth not only to the wayward believer; it stretches forth to the unbeliever as well. As 1 Timothy 2:3-4 teaches us, God wishes all to be saved, which is why He sent Christ to die for us, even when we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). Whether we are saved or unsaved, God seeks after us when we are wayward, and He has written His own love song to call us home: the Bible.

Support Fred by buying his song on iTunes (Title: Oh Sweet Lorraine, in conjunction with Green Show Studio). I have. Support God by abandoning your selfish pursuits and embracing His way of life. We all should.

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