There is a parable in the Bible about a man with two sons. We title it the "Prodigal Son," but there are three main characters in the story. Jewish scholars would title this the "Compassionate Father and his two Lost Sons." Both of the sons are in rebellion and it can be argued that the point of the parable is not the action of either of the sons, but rather the consistent compassion of the father toward each of the sons. It’s a story to convey the truth of our loving and compassionate God as a Father.
The younger son’s sins are obvious to us in breaking relationship and squandering his inheritance. But the older son shames his father as well. According to Brad Young, it would have been the eldest son’s responsibility to become the mediator between his brother and father and to work toward leading his brother into repentance. The first century hearers of the parable would have been just as shocked at the older brother’s behavior as we are at the younger brother’s. It is scandalous that he keeps silent, accepting his portion of the estate and not working towards reconciliation of the family. His hard work is seen as obedience, but incomplete. Could he be concerned about the future of the remainder of the estate, which he would fully inherit? They both approach the father as an employer, or dispenser of material wealth, rather than a parent. And they are equally estranged from him.
Do I approach God the same way? With my hand out? Occasionally, I demand something not yet due, as the younger son did. But, regretfully, I more often approach God as the older brother, with a feeling of entitlement. "Why God? I've done this and this and tried to live Your way, and yet You give that prized fatted calf to my wayward brother and have withheld it from me." Ugh.
I love the ending that leaves open the older brothers response. Does he join in the festivities? Or, does he stay angry and isolated? It keeps the question open for us - do we see God as an unfair employer who hasn’t given us what we feel entitled to? Or, as a Father seeking relationship and bringing his children home? The main point is less about the sons, but rather what it teaches us about God. He is like a loving Father waiting and wanting to restore relationship, the greatest of all gifts He gives.
How does the father in the parable compare to your picture of God?
