What do you suppose happened after the feasting for the lost son’s return? In Jesus’ parable in Luke chapter 15, we learn it wasn’t a happy time had by all.

According to our definition of fairness, we can understand the anger and resentment by the older sibling who saw his fool of a brother being welcomed home like a king and given more riches. Who can’t relate to following the rules and not “seeing” any reward?

“His father said to him, ‘My child, you’re always with me. Everything I have is yours. But we have something to celebrate, something to be happy about. This brother of yours was dead but has come back to life. He was lost but has been found’” (Luke 15:31,32 GW).

What does all that worldly wealth for both brothers mean in terms of eternal life? 

To those faithful children of the Father, consider the riches of protection, safety, comfort, provision, growth in faith, and love both now and in eternity. Extend that wholesome goodness to the returned lost child who still feels the shame of a corrupted past. Teach him or her godly contentment and the joy of living in a Christ-like community.

To those once-lost children, your sins along with the guilt and shame are forgiven—your second chance is made possible by the blood of Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen your faith. Take the next returned child under your wing and demonstrate abiding joy over their eternal homecoming!