The third consecutive parable of Jesus has three main points of contact: the prodigal son represents sinners who draw near to hear Jesus; the elder son’s response typifies the rejection of the self-righteous, religious leadership over whom Jesus is welcoming to Himself; and the uncharacteristic actions and words of the father reflect God. Repentance leads to an absolute reversal: repentant sinners are restored and embraced by the heavenly Father with joy. In fact, the Father not only receives repentant sinners with open arms, He offers them His very home. Lastly, through the unresolved ending of this parable, Jesus calls us to respond to repentant sinners not with comparison, suspicion, or jealousy, but with the very joy that reflects the Father’s welcome.