The Prodigal son’s deep humiliation at finding himself obliged to feed on the husks of pigs and his reflection on all he had lost, led to his repentance and decision to declare himself guilty before his father. While he hoped for reconciliation with his father, he could not have imagined a full restoration of relationship. The father did not need to speak words of forgiveness to his son; his actions spoke more loudly and clearly! The beautiful robe, the ring, and the festive banquet symbolize the new life of every person who returns to God. The parable also contrasts mercy and its opposite un-forgiveness. The father who had been wronged, was forgiving. But the eldest son, who had not been wronged, was unforgiving. His un-forgiveness turns into spiteful pride and contempt for his brother. And his resentment leads to his isolation and estrangement from the community of forgiven sinners. In this parable Jesus gives a vivid picture of God and what God is like. He does not lose hope or give up when we stray from him. He rejoices in finding the lost and in welcoming them home.