Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

This week’s reading is a single, long passage from Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32. It is the story of The Prodigal Son. Like other popular Bible stories —Noah and the Ark, David and Goliath, The Good Samaritan —it is widely-known and usually misinterpreted. I do not write that in a snooty or judgmental way, but from long observation.

So be sure to read the passage before you go any further.

This is a story about grace. It is a story in which our usual valuations and judgments are upended. I once heard a sermon titled “The Prodigal Son’s Older Brother” that was a complete refutation of this story’s message. It was basically a sermon in praise of works-righteousness, the older brother being held up as an exemplar of good citizenship.

But that was not Jesus’ point at all! Read Luke 15:1-3 very closely. Where was Jesus? Who was he with? Who judged?

Now read Luke 15:11b-32 mindful of how the Prodigal Son aligns with the tax collectors and sinners, and the elder brother aligns with the Pharisees.

Whom do you judge and condemn? Who are the “tax collectors and sinners” in your world?

How does Jesus’ parable challenge you? How does it align with Jesus’ teaching to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us? To forgive “seventy times seven” times?