SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15: 11-31 New Testament
A man had two sons. The youngest son wanted his share of the father's inheritance now before father's death. The father consented and divided his inheritance between the two sons. The young man was happy to get his money and as soon as he got it, left home. This son squandered all of his money quickly until nothing was left and he was starving. He was very sorry and decided to go back home and ask his father to forgive him and take him in. When this son was in the distance, his father saw him approaching, he ran up to him and embraced him lovingly. The father was jubilant! He told his servants to kill his fattest calf and prepare a huge feast to celebrate his homecoming. The wayward son, repented to his dad and they were both overcome with happiness. Of course, the father forgave his son because he loved him very much.
Meanwhile, the older son was angry for his brother's wrongful ways and coming home. He was also jealous for all the attention his dad was giving his brother. The older brother said, "Dad, you never gave me a party in all these years I was faithful to you! He doesn't deserve this and I didn't waste all your money foolishly!" The father replied, "Your brother was lost and now is found! I love both of you and he repented and was very sorry. Get over it!"
LESSON
God/Jesus is love. He forgives us because of his amazing love for us, even when we go astray. His love is unconditional and eternal.