The Prodigal Son [part one]

The account of the prodigal son begins with these simple words, "A certain man had two sons." (Luke 15:11). While the word "prodigal" does not appear in this passage, it’s a word which means "reckless" and "extravagant." Therefore, it’s definitely a word that describes the behavior of the younger of these two sons. However, this story is not just about one person. It’s about three. Two sons and their father. While our focus is generally upon the younger son, this is also a story about an older son, and the father of these two.

This parable has a wonderful way of touching the heart of most parents. If one of our own children hasn’t been a prodigal in some ways, then we probably know some parents who have had a prodigal. This story is repeated over and over again in homes and in congregations throughout this nation. Prodigals rebel, they leave home, leaving fathers and mothers who are praying for their safe return. And in some ways even some of us may have walked the same road of rebellion that the prodigal traveled, bringing grief to our parents. Either way, most of us can relate to this story in one way or another. There are many ways to relate to what the Lord is trying to teach us via this story.

A number of years ago a respected member of the church was accused of murdering a man in cold blood. He had been released on bond as he awaited his trial. It just so happened that the church he had attended was having a gospel meeting, so although hesitant, he decided to attend. The things that were being said pricked his heart, he went forward humbly confessing his sin, and asking to be restored to good standing in the church. In the days that followed there was considerable discussion among the members as to what should be done with this man. Could the church accept him? Could they afford to have this man in their homes and treat him as a brother? What would the community think of them? What about other notorious individuals who might come to their assembly expressing a similar spiritual interest: perhaps a known prostitute, or the town drunk? Would we be uncomfortable having them in our presence? If we find such questions challenging, this series of articles about the prodigal son may prove to be useful.

"Oh, I’m not a prodigal," you may say. And that’s probably true. At least for now. But all of us have played the part of a prodigal at one time or another as far as our heavenly Father is concerned. For Paul says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," (Romans 3:23). Paul further states, "...in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us," (Romans 5:8). So, one of the things this story illustrates for us is the kind of love, compassion, and patience our Father in heaven has shown to us, by the example of this father and his behavior toward his two sons. In the weeks to come we’ll try our best to learn some of these valuable lessons.