When I was growing up we always had several cats outside. There was one cat we had named Fudge (because my friend and I were making fudge when she was born). This cat would disappear for sometimes a year or longer. But she'd always come back. She did this several times over the course of well over 5 years. Until finally my mom never saw her again. She always knew where we were and would drop in to say hello.
I just have a feeling you will see Max again. However, at the same time I do not want you to get your hopes up either. Please don't feel like this is just your luck and things like this always happen to you. Think of what Max taught you and your family. Maybe Max was sent to you by Sassy, even if only for a short time, to open your hearts to another pet. If what you say is true, then another kitty that needs you will find their furrever home with you.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm not a religous person (AT ALL), but I do think things happen for a reason. We don't always know what that reason is, but there is a reason.

Wow, I don't know where that all came from, lol.