these have been young people, or perhaps children of dedicated parents, hence well acquainted with the hope of life in a restored paradise. Sometimes these young ones, perhaps in their early teens, have been immersed, claiming to be dedicated. Then shortly they disappear from view as far as Jehovah’s witnesses are concerned. They become wholly absorbed in worldly ways and pleasures, sometimes indulging in shameful conduct, bringing reproach on their parents. Then the parents, in great grief, raise the question as to whether their young son or daughter really understood the significance of dedication and baptism. But is that not a poor time to raise that question? Should they not have made sure about that at the time? It is so easy for young ones to take up something with great enthusiasm for a time, then take up something else with equal zest. They are just getting a taste of what life has to offer, including the attractions of this world with its dreams and vanities. (Eccl. 4:7) They are susceptible to suggestions. They see others of their age being immersed, so why not they? With their knowledge of the truth they feel they can say Yes to the two questions put to them at the time of immersion. But can it be said that at that stage they really appreciate what it means to take the step of dedication as a perpetual “vow to God” to do his will for all time, involving their whole life? The scripture says: “Better is it that you vow not than that you vow and do not pay,” pleading “it was a mistake.” “Why should the true God become indignant on account of your voice and have to wreck the work of your hands?” That is just what happened to the prodigal son.—Eccl. 5:4-6.

22. What should be encouraged with individuals, but what should be avoided?

²² Of course, individuals, including young ones, vary greatly. At a surprisingly early age some can take a serious view of things and hold to it. There are Bible examples of this, such as Samuel. We cannot lay down a general rule or age limit. Each one in the family must be dealt with individually. At the same time, we want to avoid a course that, in effect, tends to produce prodigal sons.

23. What questions arise regarding those who go astray?

²³ Many questions arise concerning those who go astray. They are not willful enemies. Is recovery possible for them and, if so, how? How does the illustration of the prodigal son help to answer these questions? What light does it throw, not only on the prodigal son class, but on the attitude and course to be taken by those who stay close to God’s organization? These and other questions will be discussed in a succeeding issue of The Watchtower.

Vigorous Return to Spiritual Life

“As a boy of fourteen,” reports a Witness in Nebraska, “I was first associated with Jehovah’s witnesses through my mother’s interest in the Bible. I was baptized in 1946. But I’m sorry to say, as I look back over those years, that my reckless nature and immaturity caused me to make many mistakes, but I am thankful to Jehovah for his loving mercy. I was distracted by the anxieties of raising a family and by materialistic pursuits until I was almost spiritually dead. Then I was suddenly laid off work. What would I do? I decided it was high time to follow Jesus’ advice to put Kingdom interests first. In time we went to serve where the need was great and I became a servant. When things became difficult and we considered leaving, I would sit at my desk and go over the Publisher’s Record cards. I would see more than just names; I would see living souls who were beginning to take the steps to life. How could I abandon them after they had come so far and showed such a willing spirit? We stayed!”