The Elder son in the Parable of Prodigal Son

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Second Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 15:1-3, 11-32*

*First Reading : Mi 7:14-15, 18-20*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12*

*The Elder son in the Parable of Prodigal Son*

The elder son in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) has several shortcomings that reveal a heart hardened by self-righteousness, resentment, and a misunderstanding of grace.

Here are some key weaknesses

*1) Self-Righteousness and Pride*

The elder son believes his long years of service make him more deserving of his father’s favor than his wayward brother. 

He says, *Look, all these years I have been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders* (Luke 15:29).

He sees himself as righteous by works, not by grace.

He feels entitled to rewards for his obedience.

Faithfulness is important, but when it leads to pride, it blinds us to God’s grace.

True righteousness comes from a heart of love, not duty alone.

*2) Resentment and Unforgiveness*

Instead of rejoicing over his brother’s return, he reacts with anger and bitterness:

He refuses to enter the celebration (Luke 15:28).

He disowns his brother, referring to him as *this son of yours* (Luke 15:30). But he never says *my bother*

A lack of forgiveness can keep us from enjoying God’s blessings. 

If we are unwilling to forgive, we may miss out on the joy of restored relationships.

*3) Jealousy and Comparison*

The elder son complains that he never received a young goat to celebrate with his friends, while his father throws a feast for the younger son (Luke 15:29–30). 

He compares what he received to what his brother received, leading to jealousy.

He feels only he is entitled to receive but not his bother 

When we compare ourselves to others, we lose sight of what God has already given us. 

Instead of resenting God’s generosity to others, we should trust in His perfect love for us.

*4) Failure to Recognize His Sonship*

The father gently reminds him, *Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours* (Luke 15:31). 

The elder son had been in the father’s house all along, but he lived as if he were just a servant.

Our greatest blessing is not just the rewards of obedience but the intimacy of being with the Father. 

If we see ourselves as mere servants rather than beloved children, we miss the joy of God’s presence.

*5) An Unresolved Ending*

Unlike the younger son, who repents and is restored, the elder son’s story ends without resolution.

We never see if he enters the feast or remains outside in his bitterness.

The parable leaves us with a question: Will we embrace grace, or will we cling to self-righteousness? The choice is ours.

If so, what is my choice?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*