When the father saw his prodigal son, ‘his heart went out to him’. Jack Graham writes: ‘This isn’t a father who can’t wait to punish his sinful son…who has written him off as wasted and worthless. This is a loving, caring father who can’t wait to embrace and welcome him. He runs down the road to meet him…What you see…is a picture of the Father’s love for you…eager…excessive… approachable…abundant.’
Max Lucado adds: ‘The tale involves a wealthy father and a wilful son [who]…takes his inheritance [to] Las Vegas and…wastes [it] on slot machines and call girls…Broke [and] too proud to go home, he gets a job sweeping…stables at the racetrack. When he finds himself…[eating]…their oats, he realises enough is enough…Off he goes, rehearsing his repentance speech…But…“When he was…a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion” [v. 20 NKJV]…We expect crossed arms…a furrowed brow…a guarded handshake…a stern lecture…Instead [the father said], “Bring out the best robe…a ring…sandals…and…the fatted calf” [vv. 22-23 NKJV].’
The ring symbolised delegated authority. The one who wore it carried on business in the name of the one who gave it. Would you have given this prodigal the power of attorney over your matters? Entrusted him with your credit card? When you came to God, you were given authority to conduct business in His name. When you speak truth, you’re His ambassador (see 2 Corinthians 5:20). As you steward finances He gives, you’re His business manager. When you proclaim forgiveness, you’re His priest. He has given you the privilege to do for others what He does for you. Don’t withhold encouragement or affirmation! Speak words that strengthen others. Why? Because you represent your Father!
This passage is from the New Testament of the Bible, in the book of Luke, chapter 15, verse 20. It describes the reunion of a father and his prodigal son, and how the father’s love and compassion were so great that “his heart went out to him.” This story is often seen as a symbol of God’s unconditional love and forgiveness.
The story of the prodigal son, also known as the parable of the lost son, was told by Jesus to illustrate God’s unconditional love and forgiveness. In Jesus’ time, this message was of great significance, as many people felt estranged from God and longed for a way back to his love and grace. The story of the father embracing his wayward son with open arms and celebrating his return was seen as a powerful message of hope and redemption, reminding people that no matter how far they may have strayed from God’s path, they too could be welcomed back with open arms. Thus, the story of the prodigal son was an important teaching for the people of Jesus’ time, offering comfort and encouragement in their journey of faith.
