In Luke Chapter 15 11-21 we find the parable of The Prodigal Son. This is certainly one of the more familiar parables of Jesus. Often, we may forget that there were two sons in this story and in my very limited view I can’t help but think of Prince William and Harry when I read this story.

The first son revealed to us is the younger of the two brothers. This younger son seems unsatisfied with his life at his father’s estate and decides to go his own way. This son demands his inheritance and moves to a far-off land to live the way he wants to live. Unfortunately, this son is immature and wasteful and squanders his money so that in the end he has to work doing things that are far beneath him to try to earn a living.

The second eldest son in the mean time, stays with his father, working and leading in the fields doing what seems to be the right thing for his family and their well-being. He is responsible and does the duty laid out to him by his birthright. Truth be told, I picture this son to be bitter toward the other. Certainly, in this time, the younger of the two sons was not entitled to what he had demanded the eldest son is supposed to inherit all.

In the end of the story, the younger son realizes the error of his ways and decides to go home and throw himself on his father’s mercy and be a servant in his house. When his father sees him, he is so overrun with joy he demands a party be thrown to celebrate his wayward sons return and welcomes him with open arms. When the eldest hears of this he is angry and refuses to go to the party, telling his father that he has always done the right thing and worked hard and he never received a party.

As little as I know about the topic, I can certainly see the two Prince’s in this story. One living a life of duty and the other going his own way and going against tradition. What I hope for the two of them is that they get the main point that the two in the original story missed. Whether you are doing what you think you are supposed to do, or making your way on your own, the father really only wants to have a good relationship with you. What both the first and second sons missed, was that their father would celebrate them whether they did his bidding or not. He loves them both.

If we look at God as a father, He too wants to have a good relationship with us. I see many Saints obsessing over following the rules and doing everything right and on the other side, I see many sinners obsessing over the things they have done wrong. God has a short memory. As soon as you repent, he remembers them no more (Hebrews 10:17) and you can’t behave your way into eternal life, it is all based on the finished work of Christ there really isn’t more you can do. How many people are missing out on the Father’s best for you?

The Father is looking to be close to you.  Will you lay down your perceptions and draw close to Him? He is looking to celebrate you, will you give Him the chance?