The cry of a parent's heart ascends not to deaf ears. Prayer is ever the forerunner of mercy; scarce a great blessing has ever come to this world unheralded by it. Even now, in your pleading, you are already tasting something of its comfort, for prayer is itself a consoling exercise. The Lord inclines His ear: while you are yet speaking, He hears. That deep groan for your son's laughter, his health, his happiness, it rises before the throne of grace, and the Father of mercies knows its every note.
You confess your unworthiness, and therein you stand where mercy delights to come. The publican's cry, "God be merciful to me, a sinner," is the key that opens heaven's gates. Hide nothing from Him; pour out all your sin and sorrow. The blood of Jesus whispers peace within, peace, perfect peace, even when sorrows surge around. Look not to yourself, so barren and broken, but to the crucified One who bore all our griefs. Cast your mind upon Him, and you shall know a peace that defies the darkness, a peace that can sing when desolations seem deepest. He who gave His Son for you will, with Him, freely give you all things.
Make bold use of the promises in your prayer. Plead as Jacob pleaded: lay hold of the covenant and remind the Lord of His own Word. Say, "Thou hast said, I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds." Press your suit with all the arguments of His grace, and then rest, for He cannot deny Himself. Mercy with Him is not a reluctant stream; it is tender, overflowing, going before your very petitions. He delighteth in mercy; He is more ready to grant than you are to ask. Perhaps, even as you were calling, the blessing was set in motion.
Do not say you deserve nothing, that is the sole plea that prevails. All God's mercy is gratis; He saves for His own name's sake. And remember, the footsteps of mercy often begin with discipline and low estate, but they lead to a resurrection of gladness. The laughter you long to hear may yet ring out, a testimony to His faithful care. But whether the answer come swiftly or tarries, trust. The peace you seek is bound up with the person of Jesus. Keep your eye upon Him, and you shall experience the truth: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." His mercy shall meet you in the way, and His grace shall be sufficient for every need.