Do you know what the word prodigal means? I grew up thinking it meant sinful because of The Prodigal Son parable in the Bible, but it doesn’t. It means either overly generous or wasteful in your spending. Today we will look at the parable in the Bible we label The Prodigal Son, but call it The Prodigal Father instead.

In this story, there’s a father of two sons whose land has been in the family for a hundred years. The younger son is the black sheep of the family, while the older son has a closer relationship with their father. One day, the younger son tells his father, “I want my inheritance now.” Can you imagine the argument that ensued? Saying “I want my inheritance now,” is like saying, “I wish you were dead and I just want your money.” 

Astonishingly, the father sells part of his land, and gives his son the portion he asked for. The son leaves and spends all of his inheritance unwisely. With nothing left, the son misses home and humbly decides to return, offering to be his father’s servant. Much to the older son’s dismay, the younger son is received by his father with great joy and a huge celebration!

Friend, the heart of this father is beautifully generous. His love is unconditional. This is how it is in the Kingdom of God when someone comes home to Jesus. There’s great rejoicing over each person who repents! Won’t you come home? Just give your life to the Lord and begin to build your life as a response to His love and the love of the Father for you.