LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SON

We’re all familiar with the Parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15: 11-32). A tale of a father with two sons. The younger, eager for his inheritance ahead of time, receives his share and squanders it on indulgent living before returning home in disgrace. Upon his return, the father, brimming with love and compassion, welcomes him with open arms and a grand feast, celebrating his homecoming.

But what about the elder son, steadfast and dutiful, who remained by his father’s side? Despite his loyalty, upon witnessing the festivities for his wayward brother, he becomes embittered, lamenting his own faithful service.

“All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!” 

The father’s response is poignant: “My son, you are always with me and everything I have is yours.”

In this narrative, a deeper message emerges. The father’s wealth, initially divided between his sons, signifies an abundant inheritance for both. Not just the younger son, but both sons. 

However, the elder son’s failure lies in not realising his entitlement to this wealth. Instead of claiming his birthright, he labors resentfully, unaware of the riches at his disposal.

So while the prodigal son represents those returning to faith, the elder son symbolises those who miss out on God’s abundant blessings.

This parable challenges us to reflect on our own spiritual journey.  If you are a Christian who identifies with the elder son, you may be missing out on your divine inheritance. You may miss out on the abundant life and blessings that God has in store for you. Despite your ongoing faithfulness and loyalty, you may have become complacent, disheartened or even bitter, failing to seize the fullness of the Holy Spirit. 

For both the steadfast, dutiful son and the prodigal son, favors and provisions are waiting for us both. There’s restoration, protection, renewal, healing and abundance. There is an oversupply of deliverance, wisdom, peace, and joy. There is guidance, strength, and power ready for us to draw upon. 

As children of God,  all of this is our birthright, given to us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We have the right to claim it. 

I’ll leave you with one final thought – if your earthly father left you a significant inheritance, would you leave it unclaimed? If your answer is no,  so why then would you leave the inheritance from God unclaimed?

This divine inheritance—infinitely more valuable than any earthly wealth—is yours for the taking. Do not let it go to waste. Embrace the fullness of what God has to offer, seize the blessings and abundance that are rightfully yours, and live the life of grace and fulfillment that He has promised.

Thank you for reading. If you need some inspirational stories to boost your faith, head over here to read some testimonies of my encounters with Jesus.