The familiar Biblical parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32) is considered one of the most poignant stories Jesus told. I think its power lies in the simple yet profound portrayal of God’s boundless love and forgiveness. It is the story of a young son who decided the grass was greener out in the world and proceeded to waste his inheritance on reckless living, eventually finding himself in a deep mess. When the rebellious son finally decided to return home, he expected nothing more than to be treated like a servant, which he felt he deserved. The father’s reaction was so incredibly beautiful—he ran to his approaching son with open arms, overflowing with joy, with not even a thought in his head to bring up the past. I imagine he showered his son’s cheeks with kisses until he scrunched up his face in a mix of laughter and tears. This scene sweetly captured a glimpse of a God who is always ready to forgive and offer a transformative, fresh start.
Beyond the example of individual reconciliation, we see at the forefront of the story, a deeper dive unveils the underlying complexities of family dynamics and the struggle with jealousy and resentment. The Lord makes no mistake in allowing us to see, in a very human reaction, the older brother’s expression of anger. How dare his father throw a lavish celebration for the wayward brother?! When the father gently reminded the older son that he’d always been there and had a share in the patriarchal blessings anytime he wanted, it challenges us to consider what we have right in front of us and how easy it can be to overlook those gifts. It also gently nudges us to examine our own hearts—do we celebrate the successes of others, or do we harbor envy and bitterness? Do we focus on rules and rewards rather than on relationships and love?
I find a lot of comfort in the prodigal son parable. In a recent turn of events that can only be attributed to a merciful Lord who still answers prayer, I will soon be hugging my “prodigal” again after fourteen long, tear-filled years. Protective of the peace we enjoy, my other adult children are understandably trepidatious about allowing their estranged sibling back in our lives. I have gently reassured each of them that while they always have had my love and attention, their separated sibling has not been under that umbrella of my care for an entire season. I don’t know exactly how my story will unfold, but I am hopeful and fully confident in a sovereign God.
We’re all aware of how toxic polarization can damage relationships, even within our faith communities. This parable offers a powerful model for reconciliation. Just as the father welcomed the prodigal son, and God welcomes us, we should approach fractured relationships with the same open-hearted love and forgiveness, as peacemakers. The story reminds us that no matter how far we’ve drifted or how flawed we feel, God’s grace is always available. It challenges our own struggles with self-righteousness and inadequacy, emphasizing our complete reliance on a God who doesn’t demand perfection but offers unconditional love and acceptance.
Just come home.
April Brooks
April serves as the Senior Content Manager for One America Movement. She is a lifelong learner and an avid observer of people. A proud living kidney donor and a passionate fan of God and her family, she loves the power of a well-written word. April and her husband Michael live in northeast Mississippi near Tupelo in a tiny house they are renovating themselves. They are active members of Lawndale Presbyterian Church, also in Tupelo. April holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Faulkner University and a Master’s in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix.
April serves as the Senior Content Manager for One America Movement. She is a lifelong learner and an avid observer of people. A proud living kidney donor and a passionate fan of God and her family, she loves the power of a well-written word. April and her husband Michael live in northeast Mississippi near Tupelo in a tiny house they are renovating themselves. They are active members of Lawndale Presbyterian Church, also in Tupelo. April holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Faulkner University and a Master’s in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix.
