The story of the prodigal son is usually used to emphasize repentance but there is another perspective that is often overlooked–the generosity of the father. The younger son asked for his inheritance before his father died. The father divided the inheritance between both of his sons. The younger one took it and squandered his property in reckless living. Then a severe famine arose. He was hired to feed pigs. The next sentence is chilling: “And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything” (Luke 13:16).
The father was more than generous to begin with. He trusted that both of his sons would use the money responsibly. He gifted them with it early. But the younger son blew it all. He was irresponsible. Rather than demand the money back, the father embraced his son when he came to his senses. He felt compassion on him and embraced him. The father said, “For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found” (vs. 24). He threw a huge celebration for his son who came home. The older son became indignant that their father would celebrate the failures of his brother.
The father’s response shows the tenderness and generosity of his heart. When he addressed his older son’s jealousy, he also showed compassion to both of his sons: “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found” (vs. 32). Our Father is giving, and he demonstrates how we human fathers can also be giving to our children.