In the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus tells of a younger son who squanders his inheritance in reckless living, eventually returning home in desperation and repentance. Instead of rejection, he is met with extravagant grace as his father runs to embrace and restore him. Meanwhile, the older brother resents the celebration. He is perhaps even more lost that his brother was, lost not because of his sin but because of his "righteousness". Jesus tells this story to not only illustrate God's joyful grace towards us, but also to challenge us to celebrate and share God's grace rather than resist it.

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For Reflection:

- Which character do you most relate to — the younger son, the older brother, or the father? Why?

- What does the father’s response (literally, "ran to him and fell on his neck with kisses") reveal about God’s heart?

- How do you respond when others receive grace that you feel they don’t deserve?

- How might God want you to be a good "elder" sibling to prodigal sisters and brothers?

- Prayer: Father, thank you for sending Jesus, a true elder brother, to bring us home.