Story 73 of 100 · Based on Luke 15:11-32
The Son Who Came Home
Jesus told this story.
A man had two sons. The younger one said to his father:
—Father, give me my share of the estate.
The father gave it to him. And a few days later, the younger son gathered up everything he had and set off for a distant country. There he spent all his money. When he had nothing left, a severe famine came over that country, and he began to be in need. He went to work taking care of pigs, and he was so hungry that he longed to eat what the pigs ate.
Then he thought:
—How many of my father's workers have food to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go back to my father, and say to him: "Father, I have sinned against God and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired workers."
And he set out. While he was still a long way off, his father saw him. He felt compassion, ran to meet him, hugged him and kissed him.
—Father, I have sinned against God and against you —the son began to say.
But the father said to his servants:
—Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and let us celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has come back to life; he was lost and has been found.
And the celebration began.
The older son was in the field. When he came back and heard the music, he became angry and refused to go in. His father went out and pleaded with him.
—My son —he said—, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate, because your brother was dead and has come back to life; he was lost and has been found.
That is what God the Father is like: he always waits for us with open arms.
Let's talk: When you make a mistake, what can you do to come home, like the son?
God waits for you with open arms, no matter what. Goodnight.