Friday – Luke 15:11-32
The story of the prodigal son wrecks me. It’s hard for me to read. I see myself in both brothers.

I see myself in the younger son when he says to his father, “Give me what I want.”

I see myself in the younger son when he comes to his senses and says, “Father, make me what you want me to be.”

I see myself in the older brother who was jealous and unforgiving.

I see a father who loves them both.

I imagine Jesus wanting to change the ending of this account. Instead of bitterness and jealousy, Jesus wanted to describe an older brother who goes after his sibling and brings him home.

Jesus could not end the story as I imagine. Why? Because of me and because of you. Because we refuse to forgive. Because we feed on bitterness. And until we seek forgiveness and extend grace to one another, this cycle will continue.