The parable of the prodigal son has much to show us about God’s incredible love and forgiveness (Luke 15:11-32). In this parable the younger of two sons asked his father for his share of what would eventually be his inheritance. The son then travelled far away and wasted his wealth on licentious living, winding up in poverty. With a repentant heart he headed home. His father had been waiting and watching for the return of his wayward son and greeted him not with chiding and criticism, but with great compassion, forgiveness and rejoicing. The elder son was not impressed with his brothers return and could only respond with loveless judgmentalism.

The sins of the prodigal son damaged his relationship with his father. Before anyone becomes a Christian sin separates them from God (). However, like the father of the prodigal our heavenly Father waits patiently for people to repent and ask Him into to their lives so He can forgive them and lavish His love and compassion on them. There is great joy in heaven when someone gives their life to Jesus (Luke 15:7). However, like the Prodigal son’s elder brother, not everyone on earth will cheer when someone comes home and gives their life to God. Such critics need to experience our heavenly Father’s unconditional love (1 Cor 13:4-7) and understand that His desire is for all to be saved and none to be lost (1 Tim 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). As Christians we can recall when we were separated from our heavenly Father. Pray for anyone you know that is living without Jesus to come home to God!