Read Luke 15:17b-19 ESV
Our prodigal boy has come to his senses, and we are privy to his dialogue with himself. With clarity, he understands that he had it good in his father’s house. Even the hired servants had more than enough bread.
Don’t miss this. Reread that. More than enough bread. Not just enough—at this point, enough would have been enough for our hungry boy. But he acknowledges the abundance that marked his father’s house.
In his right mind now, he decides to return to his father’s house, but he believes his place will no longer be available. He insulted his father and flippantly and flagrantly wasted his inheritance. So, he writes and rehearses a speech to say to his father. I wonder how many times he shook his head, not pleased with the outline, and started again.
Let’s look at what he says,
Father. He still calls him father. Some things can’t be changed.
I have sinned against heaven and before you. I have sinned. I have missed the mark with the court of heaven and with you. This is a confession. So far, so good, right?
I am no longer worthy to be called your son. I am no longer of value to be called your son. I have sullied the family name. Because of what I have done, I have lost my place.
Treat me as one of your hired servants Just let me have a place on your household staff. I’ll work for you. That will be enough. (Remember, verse 17)
As a friend of mine says, “Don’t jump ahead in the story, stay in the immediate text.” Just remain here in the prodigal son’s words for his father—this well constructed, fair-sounding speech.
Which of these four sentences grabs your attention?
Why?
What do you see that is truthful in the son’s words?
What doesn’t seem to be accurate?
Have you ever constructed a speech like this for someone?
Have you ever approached God in a similar way?