"“He arose, and came to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." (Luke 15:20)
The Heart of the Father
Commonly called "The Prodigal Son," this story is truly about the "Prodigal God"—prodigal meaning recklessly extravagant in spending. God is extravagant in His grace.
The Younger Son: Representing rebellion and the pursuit of worldly pleasure, he realized that life apart from the father leads to emptiness.
The Elder Son: Representing religious pride, he stayed home and obeyed but lacked love, resenting his father's generosity.
The Father: He runs to meet the repentant son (shameful in that culture for an elder) and restores him fully with a robe, ring, and sandals.
Key Lesson: No matter your past, you can always come home. God's grace is greater than your sin, and His love is not earned by works.
