The Father Had Two Sons

How do I see things as they really are? I need only to ask, "How does God see this?"

Today's Gospel (Luke 15:1-3,11-32) has Jesus telling this parable to the Pharisees and scribes. It is a parable we often name "the Prodigal Son" but Jesus emphasizes that the father had two sons. When the younger one asks for his share of the estate, the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son leaves...(we are aware of his wasting his inheritance and finding himself in such dire need that he ends up tending swine and longing to eat the pods fed to the swine.)
Meanwhile, the father is watching each day hoping to see his son return.Finally, he catches sight of him and is "filled with compassion." He runs to his son, embraces him and kisses him. He orders his servants to bring the finest robe for his son, sandals for his feet, and a ring for his finger. He wants to celebrate with a feast because his son was lost and now is found!
The parable also speaks of the relationship of the father with the older son who was angry and refusing to enter the house. His father comes out and pleads with him. "My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found."

Sometimes I seem to be both sons; the important thing is to know that the Father loves me!