Most of us are familiar with the story of the prodigal son.  Let’s quickly review.  A wealthy man had two sons.  One day the younger son asked his father to give him his inheritance.  The father complied and the young man left home.  He ended up spending his inheritance on fine clothing and expensive parties.  The money soon ran out and the young man had to find a job.  A farmer hired him to feed his pigs. 

Things got so bad for the young man that even the pig slop looked good to eat!  He quickly came to his senses and returned home to his father to beg his forgiveness.  The father was overjoyed and embraced his son.  A special party was planned for the young man to celebrate his return.

Now the older brother was out in the field and heard music and laughter.  His anger burned within him.  He complained to his father, “You have never prepared a feast for me, even though I have worked hard for you while this brother of mine was out wasting your money!”

The father gently explained, “Son, all that I have is yours.  But today we must celebrate.  Your brother, who was lost, is now found.”  The ultimate meaning of this parable is to show how happy Yahweh feels when a sinner turns back to him. 

MATTHEW 6:14
"If you forgive others the wrongs they have done to you, your Father in heaven will also forgive you."