I have heard many sermons and interpretations of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-24). Most of them project the prodigal son as the wayward, selfish son who squanders his fortune but is then welcomed home by the father and resented by the righteous son.
This was great for me when I was searching for a scripture that would offer a ticket out of the life I had created and into one of mercy and grace. However, as I continue to seek deeper insights to this story, I find a twist to the story.
Please remember, take what you like and leave the rest.
When the brother asked the father for his inheritance early, the father graciously and willingly gave it to him. The father allowed him to go into the world and live his own life. The father supported his son's dream and his desire completely. He did not cut him off or say, "You unselfish kid, take what you want and leave, and don't bother coming home. The father did not judge him when he left and welcomed him when he came home.
This is a story of God, the creator of our world, who supplies all of our needs and allows us to go out into the world to test our wings. God does not prevent us from living nor does God judge our actions, but allows us to explore and to experience life. Most importantly when we make choices that aren't what we deem good or in our best interest, God welcomes us home with open arms.
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