"His older son...was angry." Lk 15:25, 28 NKJV

The parable of the prodigal son is about two boys and their father's love for each. The younger one dishonored his father and ended up in a pigpen. When he returned home, he had lost everything—except his father's love.

So no matter who you are or what you have done-God loves you and wants you in His family. Jesus made an amazing statement: "When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him" (v. 20 NKJV).

Ancient Hebrew culture thought running was an undignified act for older men. Men wore long flowing robes, and had to pull them up around their waist to run, exposing their undergarments. But the father didn't care about what people thought; he cared about his wayward son.

Unfortunately, his older brother didn't feel that way. Do you understand why a lot of younger brothers are still out in the pigpen and don't want to enter the church? Because they're afraid older brothers will hit them with the mean hand of judgment instead of touching them with the welcoming hand of love.

• The older brother desires punishment, but the father provides pardon.
• The older brother requires guilt, but the father gives grace.
• The older brother wants revenge, but the father wants reconciliation.

Here is the good news: No matter how low you have fallen, know that as soon as you return, you will discover your heavenly Father facing you, extending open arms and a loving heart toward you.

Prodigal, come home! The welcoming hand of love

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