Opening Verse
“And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.”
– Luke 15:28, KJV*
Introduction
The story of the prodigal son is one we know well. It’s about a wayward son who returns home, and a father who forgives. But there’s another character in this parable that often gets less attention—the older brother. His reaction to his brother’s return reveals a heart condition that we still see in churches today.
Devotional Story
The older brother was out in the field when his younger brother returned home. After squandering his inheritance, the younger brother had hit rock bottom. When he came back, expecting nothing more than to be a servant in his father’s house, his father welcomed him with open arms and threw a grand celebration. But when the older brother heard the music and dancing, he became angry. He refused to join the celebration.
Instead of rejoicing that his lost brother had returned, the older brother was filled with resentment. He saw the celebration as unjust. “These many years do I serve thee,” he said to his father, “neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends” (Luke 15:29, KJV). His heart was hardened by self-righteousness, bitterness, and jealousy.
What This Means
The older brother’s attitude is not uncommon in the church today. How often do we see Christians who feel overlooked, undervalued, or envious when others receive blessings or forgiveness that they believe should be theirs? This attitude can create division within the body of Christ. Instead of celebrating the grace that God extends to others, some are quick to judge or withhold love, feeling as if their own faithfulness has gone unnoticed or unrewarded.
This parable shows us the danger of harboring such feelings. The older brother’s self-righteousness blinded him to the joy of his brother’s return and to the grace that was always available to him. The father reminded him, “Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine” (Luke 15:31, KJV). The same is true for us. God’s love and blessings are abundant; there’s no need for envy or bitterness.
Think About This
Do you find yourself resentful when others are blessed? Do you struggle with feeling unnoticed or unappreciated in your faith journey? Remember, God’s love for you is constant and unfailing. Don’t let self-righteousness or jealousy rob you of the joy of seeing others come to Christ. Rejoice in the grace and mercy that is available to all.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have been like the older brother, harboring resentment instead of rejoicing in Your mercy. Help me to see others through Your eyes, with a heart full of love and grace. Teach me to celebrate the victories and blessings of others as if they were my own. Amen.
Closing Verse
“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”
-1 Corinthians 2:9