In this the final message in our Hope Remains Series, we look at the Parable of the Prodigal Son. 

The story begins when the younger sibling of a farmer asks for his portion of the family estate, and making plans to travel and enjoy the spoils of having money to spend, as he pleased. 

Unfortunately when the money runs out a severe famine hits the country and the son finds himself in dire circumstances, he sees no other option but to take a job feeding pigs, he grows so destitute that he even longs to eat the food assigned to the pigs.

The young man finally comes to his senses, remembering his father. In humility he recognises his foolishness and decides to return to his father and ask for forgiveness and mercy.

The father is overjoyed by the return of his lost son and welcomes him with open arms of compassion. When the older son comes in from a hard days work, he boils with anger and jealousy that his brother was welcomed home and that an enormous feast and party ensued.

This shows the heart of God as he waits patiently and with ultimate compassion to restore us when we return to him with humble hearts - he doesn't dwell on our past waywardness.

The guide passage is Luke 15:11-32.