When a Father Pardons a Son

Based on Luke 15:22-24

Today, we reflect on one of the most beautiful passages in Scripture, Luke 15:22-24, from the Parable of the Prodigal Son. These verses capture the heart of a father’s mercy: “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quickly, bring the best robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.”

This moment is not just a homecoming; it’s a revelation of God’s boundless love and forgiveness. Let’s unpack this scene and see what it teaches us about pardon, grace, and the heart of our Heavenly Father.

First, notice the father’s response. The son, who squandered his inheritance and lived recklessly, returns home expecting judgment—or at best, to be treated as a servant. Yet, the father doesn’t wait for an apology or demand repayment. He runs to his son, embraces him, and before the son can fully confess, the father is already restoring him. The best robe covers his shame, the ring restores his identity as a son, and the sandals signify his place in the family. This is what divine pardon looks like: it’s immediate, extravagant, and transformative.

The father’s actions challenge us. How often do we hold grudges, waiting for someone to “earn” forgiveness? God’s mercy doesn’t keep score. When we turn back to Him, no matter how far we’ve strayed, He meets us with open arms. This parable reminds us that God’s forgiveness is not about our worthiness but about His love.

Second, the father declares a feast: “Let’s celebrate!” The son’s return isn’t just a private moment; it’s a cause for communal joy. The fattened calf is slaughtered, a rare and lavish act, showing that God’s forgiveness is not reluctant but jubilant. When a sinner repents, heaven rejoices (Luke 15:7). This invites us to reflect: Do we celebrate when others are forgiven, or do we, like the older brother in the parable, resent God’s mercy toward those we deem unworthy?

Finally, the father’s words pierce the heart: “This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” Sin separates us from God—it’s a kind of death. But repentance and forgiveness bring resurrection. God doesn’t just patch things up; He makes us new. This is the power of His pardon—it restores life, hope, and purpose.

So, what does this mean for us? First, we must trust in God’s mercy. No sin is too great for His forgiveness if we return with a contrite heart. Second, we are called to imitate the father’s pardon. Forgiving others, even when it’s hard, reflects God’s love and heals broken relationships. And third, let’s rejoice in the mercy God shows to all. Every soul restored is a victory for heaven.

As we leave here today, let’s carry the image of this father’s love in our hearts. When we fall, let’s run back to God, trusting in His pardon. And when others wrong us, let’s extend the same mercy we’ve received. For in the Father’s forgiveness, we find life, and in sharing it, we bring His kingdom closer.

Amen.

DMMc 6-19-2025