A Loving FatherSample

The Oldest Son

When we hear this parable, we always think about the prodigal son coming home. But what can we say about the brother who never left?

The older brother was the seemingly flawless son. He worked for his father, he obeyed him, he behaved. However, when we read the story, we can see that he had some character issues. When his brother returned, he was envious and angry.

I dare to say that there are more older brothers than prodigal sons. They’re those people who’ve never strayed from the path, they participate in all the programs, they obey the word of God, maybe they are leaders, but on the inside, they are not well.

Sometimes they are so busy working for God that they have no time to be with Him. Seemingly perfect, they point out those who back away or fall. And although they appear to be flawless on the outside, their hearts need to be changed.

You may also be the older brother with faults and sins that no one knows about, yet you don't want to get away from your Father. You struggle to change, you are not perfect, and you recognize it, but you know that in your father's house you have the opportunity to improve.

The parable could be perfectly told without mentioning the older brother, but Jesus put it there for a reason. We don't all leave home, but just because we stay doesn't mean we're perfect. I'm in church, but I listen to music that takes me away from God. I participate in the services, but I criticize the other brothers if I see that they don’t do something well. I’m mad because they gave a job to so-and-so and not me, I deserved it more.

In a nutshell, we are imperfect children, but we have a perfect Father who wishes to mold our character until one day we become like Him. This is why in the parable, the Father doesn’t forget his eldest son, but instead goes to look for him and begs him to join the party as well.

We serve a God who doesn’t overlook our efforts, who blesses us and loves us. Let us celebrate with him our victories and those of others, for that is what our Father has taught us at home.

Thank you for staying.