I have been reading and rereading the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. There are so many lessons to be learned from it – so many truths and observations to make.
It is obvious that prodigals are important to the Father. He loves both sons deeply. He made preparations for a celebration while the son was still a long way away. He embraced him and had a party to celebrate the home-coming. When the older son refused to come to the party, the father went and pleaded with him to come in.
Both sons have disappointed the father and yet the father pursues them. The younger son has been rebellious and squandered his inheritance. The older son has been faithful but misses the party because of resentment.
There is another character in the story that is mentioned briefly – he is the pig farmer who gives the younger boy a job – not a good job but a job.
I have wondered, which of these I most resemble.
- Without question, I have been the younger son. There was a time when I was choosing my own way and had no desire to honor my heavenly Father.
- I fear I have also been the older brother – not always ready to forgive and celebrate the returning prodigal.
- I have at times been the pig farmer – more concerned about my own needs than with the fact that there is a prodigal in my midst who needs to go home.
- I long to be more like the Father who looks with a sense of expectancy and hope for a party to celebrate the home-coming of a prodigal.
The Father celebrates a homecoming. The prodigal celebrates grace and mercy. Perhaps there are three prodigals – the younger son who returns, the older son who refuses to celebrate and a pig farmer who is oblivious to it all.
