Let’s explore some controversial questions.
Is there such a thing as an unpardonable sin? Can God still love someone who has cheated on their spouse? What about the person who deceived the elderly, stealing their entire life savings? And what about the person who was so overtaken by rage that they took another’s life?
These are hard questions that Jesus answered through a simple story.
If you’ve spent any time in church, you’ve probably heard this story. It’s the story of the lost son — the one who demanded that his father give him his inheritance. He then goes off and lives recklessly. We’re not given much detail about his lifestyle, but Jesus paints a picture of a young man who was consumed by all kinds of worldly indulgences. As a result, he squandered all of his wealth. After hitting rock bottom, the young man makes his way home.
The remarkable part of the story isn’t the son’s return — it’s the father’s response.
The Father’s Unexpected Welcome
While the son was still far away, his father saw him and ran toward him. He didn’t wait for an explanation. He didn’t ask for reasons. He didn’t demand an apology. Instead, the father is moved with compassion and embraces him with love.
Think about this for a moment:
- The father didn’t know how much the son had wasted. Nor the things he had done while he was away.
- He didn’t know the burdens the son carried or the regret weighing on his heart.
- He had no idea if the son had truly repented or was just desperate.
And yet, before the son could say a word, the father’s love was already pouring out.
A Picture of God’s Heart
This story isn’t just about the son’s failure; it’s a glimpse into the heart of God. Jesus used this parable to reveal the kind of love God has for ALL of us: a love that doesn’t demand perfection, explanations, or even an apology. The father’s embrace in the story mirrors the expansive, unconditional love of God—a love that meets us where we are, even when we feel far from deserving it.
Living with a Heart Like God’s
If we claim to follow God and look to Jesus as our example, then this story challenges us to reflect God’s love in our relationships with others. It pushes us to see people—all people—from a place of mercy and compassion, just as the father saw his son, and just as God sees YOU.
Because without that perspective, phrases like “we’re all children of God” become nothing more than empty religious jargon.
A Call to Embody God’s Love
This story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love. When God looks at you, he doesn’t see a sinner. He sees a person He would give up everything for.
Not only does God still love you after everything you’ve done, He asks us love to love others after everything they’ve done too.

We gather every Sunday, 10 AM, at Temple Beth David located at 4657 Hood Rd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418.
Join us for an uplifting message, a chance to connect with a warm community, and find encouragement. Childcare is provided. We can’t wait to see you!