The Prodigal's FamilyParaugs

The Younger Son’s Story

Wine, women, and song have been my motto. It’s been fun! I’ve always been a people person. I’ll talk to anyone, listen to anyone, and everyone has a great story to tell. I’ve never cared much for tradition. I’m a modern man, not interested in old-fashioned ways of doing things. Life’s too short to follow the rules, or so I thought.

They called me the prodigal son. I admit I had to look that up! It means, lavish, wasteful, extravagant – they were not wrong. I lived life to the max, that was until I hit rock bottom and for good measure carried on digging.

I was lost. I didn’t know what to do. So, I decided to make my way home and ask for forgiveness. I just hoped against hope that father would take me in and let me work for him. And then, there he was. I couldn’t believe my eyes. He ran up to me and I just blurted out, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” I wasn’t even sure if I meant it, but saying it out loud to him somehow made it real, and that’s when everything changed.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen my dad so happy. I had no idea how much he loved me or how much I had hurt him. I’m going to be different now. I will pay more attention, do as I am asked, and be more responsible. I’m sure I’ll mess it up from time to time but I’m also sure that I can talk to father for advice. And father loves me so much. I can count on his forgiveness.

This monologue was first used as part of a reconciliation service to aid with the examination of conscience along with the following questions. Use this and the scripture that inspired it to reflect on God’s mercy and forgiveness of us as sinners.

Do you sometimes behave as if the rules don’t apply to you? Have you been tempted by alcohol, drugs, and infidelity? Pray now for mercy.

Do you find yourself saying things you don’t mean and being insincere? Have you hurt others by leaving things unsaid or by saying the wrong thing?

The younger son is often interpreted as representing the Gentiles in the time of Jesus, those outside of the faith. What God demonstrates in this story is that nothing is beyond his forgiveness. No matter what we might think, God reminds us that he came for all people and his love is not bounded by any human rules or divisions. God has promised his mercy and forgiveness to you. Pray now in thanksgiving for that precious gift.