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Part 12
The Prodigal Son Turns Back
The biblical story of the return of the prodigal son, also known as the parable of the prodigal son, is found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 15, verses 11-32. It is a powerful and well-known parable told by Jesus to illustrate God's forgiveness, love, and grace.
The story begins with a man who had two sons. The younger son approached his father and asked for his share of the inheritance that would be due to him in the future. Remarkably, the father agreed and divided his property between his two sons. The younger son then gathered all his possessions and set off to a distant country, where he indulged in reckless living.
After squandering all his wealth in prodigal living, a severe famine hit the land, and the young man found himself in great need. He was so destitute that he took on a job feeding pigs and even longed to eat the food meant for the swine. In this desperate state, the prodigal son came to his senses, realizing the abundance of his father's house and how he had squandered it all.
Filled with humility and repentance, the son decided to return to his father, not expecting to be received as a son but as a hired servant. As he made his way back home, rehearsing what he would say, his father saw him from a distance and was filled with compassion. Running towards his son, the father embraced him and kissed him, showing his overwhelming joy at his return.
The son began his prepared speech, expressing his repentance and asking to be treated as a hired servant. However, the father interrupted him and ordered his servants to bring the best robe, put a ring on his finger, and sandals on his feet. He also instructed them to prepare a feast to celebrate the return of his lost son. The father declared, "For this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found."
Meanwhile, the elder son, who had remained faithful to his father and diligently worked in the fields, returned home and heard the sounds of celebration. When he discovered the reason for the festivities, he became angry and refused to join in. The father came out and pleaded with him, emphasizing that they should rejoice because the lost son had returned.
The parable concludes with the father's words of love and reconciliation, affirming his unconditional love for both of his sons. It highlights the father's forgiveness and desire for restoration, despite the younger son's reckless behavior and the older son's self-righteousness. The story serves as a powerful reminder of God's boundless love, compassion, and willingness to forgive those who sincerely repent and turn back to him.
