A Father Waiting for a Hug

Jesus told a story about a father with two sons. One day the younger son asked for his share of the family's property.

The father gave it to him. The son went to a faraway country and spent his money carelessly. At first, he thought everything would be easy.

But his money ran out. Then there was a terrible shortage of food.

The young man found work caring for pigs. He was so hungry that he wished he could eat their food. No one gave him what he needed.

He stopped to think. Even the workers at his father's house had enough bread.

He would go home, admit what he had done, and ask to work there. He no longer expected to be welcomed as a son.

He began the long walk home.

His father saw him while he was still far away. He ran to him and hugged him.

The son began to ask forgiveness. But his father called for clothes, a ring, and sandals. They would have a feast!

“My son has come home! He was lost, and now he is found!”

The older brother was angry when he heard the celebration. He had always worked beside his father.

The father went out to speak with him too. He loved him and wanted him to share the joy.

Jesus showed how God welcomes us when we turn back to him. We can admit our mistakes, ask forgiveness, and learn a better way.

When someone else gets a fresh start, we can rejoice. Our Father's love is enough for all his children.

Jesus tells us a story, and his love stays with us.