Title: "Finding Grace in the Story of the Prodigal Son and his Elder Brother"

Devotional:

In this story, Jesus teaches us about the love and forgiveness of God through the example of a father and his two sons. The younger son asks for his share of the inheritance and goes away to spend it all on wasteful living. When he returns, penniless and hungry, his father forgives him and celebrates his return with a feast. The elder brother, however, is angry and resentful that his father would forgive his younger brother so easily.

As Christians, we can learn from both the prodigal son and his elder brother. The prodigal son teaches us about the depth of God's love and forgiveness. No matter how far we wander from God, He is always there to welcome us back with open arms. The elder brother, on the other hand, teaches us about the importance of forgiving others and extending grace. Just as God forgave us, we must also forgive others and show them the same love and kindness.

Scriptures to reflect on:

Luke 15:20 "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him."
Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Colossians 3:13 "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for your love and forgiveness. Help us to follow the example of the prodigal son and return to you with repentant hearts. Teach us to extend grace and forgiveness to others, just as you have forgiven us. In Jesus' name, Amen.