Justin Gambino shares his prodigal journey at his concerts and at churches around the country. I am so glad he could join me as a guest on the Bridges show and share his journey on Christian Television Network. Justin’s prodigal journey is a narrative woven with rebellion, redemption, and restoration through faith.
From Rebellion to Redemption
Growing up in Angleton, Texas, Justin was immersed in faith from childhood. Yet, as a rebellious teenager, his path took a detour. At just 18, he was arrested for theft – if convicted he would have a felony on his record. Given a choice between jail or service, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy—serving eight years, including deployment to Iraq. While stationed abroad, Justin’s musical longing was reignited when he was invited to lead worship on base—a powerful reminder of his earliest passion that he had long forgotten.
Returning Home He Battled the Invisible Wounds of War
Returning home, Justin battled the invisible wounds of war: PTSD, anger issues, and depression. In the throes of despair—he returned to destructive coping mechanisms and hit rock bottom. Yet from this breaking point, his “prodigal” story unfolded. On his apartment floor, crying out to God, he experienced a profound spiritual reawakening.
His transformation fueled a career marked by hope-infused anthems and revival, both personal and communal. Notably, he stages an annual revival on the courthouse steps—the very place where he was once sentenced as a teenager—a powerful act of redemption and reconciliation.
Gambino’s music underscores this theme of return: his journey from brokenness to grace is what he calls his “prodigal journey,” a central thread in his creative and spiritual life. One of his songs underscores God’s heart for prodigals with the line, “Ain’t it just like Jesus to throw a party for a prodigal son.”
A Voice of Hope
As I talked with Justin it was clear that his life and music exemplify the prodigal’s return: a journey through rebellion, pain, and grace to a place of restoration and purpose. His Bridges appearance served not just as an interview, but as a testimony—one that speaks to redemption’s power. Whether for veterans wrestling with trauma, people seeking a path back from brokenness, or those who believe in the transformative power of faith, his story stands as a call to hope and the truth that it’s just like Jesus to throw a party for a prodigal son.
Today’s Secret from the Studio: If you think it’s too late – remember that He’s the God of second chances and that it’s just like Jesus to throw a party for a
prodigal son or daughter.
Monica Schmelter is the host of Bridges that airs on Christian Television Network in over 50 million homes. You can also watch Bridges on ROKU and on demand by visiting monicaschmelter.com. Monica is also the host of the podcast Hope for the Journey and you can listen on any one of your favorite podcast apps.
