The Other Son

Luke 15:17-32

One of the parables that most of us know and think we understand is the story of the prodigal son. The thing about parables is that we can put ourselves in the role of each of the players and consider what our reactions would be in the situations.

Many of us in some way or another have left home with our “inheritance,” however it may be defined, and have thrown it away. We have been unwise, ignorant, and just plain careless with what we have…and we lose it…whether it is money, status, gifts, or our spiritual, mental, and/or physical health. We have relied on ourselves alone. And we were found wanting…and had to return home.

I have never been a parent, but I can imagine that I would be concerned if my son or daughter just took off and went somewhere and seemed not to follow what I had been trying to teach him/her. I would feel dreadful. But what a joy it would be to have that kid return home…all in one piece!! Yes, there would be a celebration, we would all go out to eat at a special restaurant, or we would prepare a meal containing my son or daughter’s favorite foods.. If my son or daughter needed a decent outfit, we would get that as well.

But what about the other son? If I were in his shoes, I would be glad that my sibling was alive and well. However, I have no doubt that I would be offended by everyone’s making a big to-do over his return. That son or daughter who stays home and does the work expected of him/her would be a saint not to feel some resentment at the celebration.

The message it sends is that if you blow all your money and get in trouble, you will be welcomed home since you did not manage to get yourself killed or put in jail. But if you stay at home and do what is expected of you, you are taken for granted.

I am not a gracious enough person not to feel that way. I might not say anything. I might smile. But underneath I would not understand why this celebration is occurring. And I would be angry. I have no doubt about it.

I understand that the son at home is to represent the Pharisees in this parable. In this scenario, it takes God and Jesus to celebrate that the lost is found. I would be glad that the lost is found, but I would have difficulty celebrating. I am not that grown-up yet.

Carol

Bible Breath: My son was dead / Now he lives