Luke 15:25-32
25 “Now his older son was in the field, and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing.
26 And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be.
27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.’
28 But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him.
29 But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you never gave me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends;
30 but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.’
31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours.
32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found.’ ”
The Parable of the Prodigal Son (second half)
Two sons that were lost
The message of the prodigal son is often concluded with the story of the younger son alone, but that is not sufficient. This parable is one complete story that includes the older brother as well. Let us return to the beginning of the parable and review its context. Two groups had gathered around Jesus: one group was the tax collectors and sinners who came to listen to Him, and the other group was the religious elites (the Pharisees and the scribes) who were critical of Jesus. To the second group, Jesus told three parables. In the parable of the prodigal son, the younger brother represents the first group, while the older brother represents the second group. Both sons were lost. The younger son was lost in a way that was obvious to everyone. On the other hand, the older brother appeared outwardly faithful to the father, but his heart was far from him. When he learned of his younger brother’s return, he openly expressed his displeasure. He referred to his own brother as “son of yours” (v 30), refusing even to acknowledge their relationship. Let us examine ourselves to see if there is any part within us that is far from the heart of our Heavenly Father.
Who is the older brother
We said that the older brother represents the religious elites. But isn’t it true that we must also admit that the same attitude as the older brother lives in our own hearts as well? Many people identify with the younger son, overlapping his story with their own and are moved by God’s love. But how many are willing to recognize that the older brother’s attitude is also a reflection of themselves? The issue with the older brother is jealousy. Have you ever felt unsettled in your heart when you saw others who were simply rejoicing in their forgiveness or those being used and blessed by God because of their faith? A spirit of envy disrupts unity among Christians and drives us far from the heart of God. In this parable, the father rebukes the older brother by using the words, “brother of yours” (v 32). The parable does not record what attitude the older brother took in the end. In this, I see the mercy of God. It is as if God is saying, “I have left you a chance to repent, so write the ending of this parable yourself.” Even toward those you may not feel favorably about, God says, “your brother,” “your sister,” and calls you to love them. Now, let’s take time to reflect on the Father’s love.
Today's prayer
Gracious Heavenly Father, please set me free from a faith that only covers the surface. Transform me into one who lives in Your love, making Your heart my own. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.