Table Talk: The Prodigal Son

Jesus taught that God’s love and forgiveness is for everyone, but some religious leaders did not agree with him. Today’s story helps these leaders (and us) understand what he meant.   The younger of two sons came to his father and said he wanted to leave and get away so his father gave the younger son his portion. The son traveled far away and spent all of his money on fancy parties and food. Soon he had no money and no place to stay. He went back to his father and was met with open arms and love. The father was so happy to see him. The older son was confused and angry because he had always worked hard and did what was right. His father explained that the older son had always been with him, but the younger son had left and come back. Then everyone understood, Jesus spent time with those people because even though they had made bad decisions, they changed their lives and decided to live the way God wanted them to. No matter what the son did or went, his father still loved him. The father chose to forgive every wrong thing his son did.   It’s important to remember God’s love stays with us wherever we go, even when we’ve done something wrong and don’t think we deserve it.   

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Table Talk Questions   

1. When is it easy to remember that God loves you? When is it hard? 
2. How would you have felt if you were the younger son and your father was so happy to see you? 
3. Do you think the older brother ever forgave his younger brother and father? Why do you think he was so angry?
4. How would you have reacted if you were the older son? Why? 

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