The Prodigal Son
A Father's Endless Love
The Story
Luke 15:11-32
Jesus told a story about a son who asked his father for his inheritance early. He took the money and ran off to a far country where he wasted it all on wild living.
When the money ran out, a famine came, and the son found himself starving — feeding pigs just to survive. He came to his senses and thought, 'Even my father's workers have more food than I do. I'll go home and say I'm sorry.'
While the son was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. The father RAN to meet him, threw his arms around him, and kissed him! The son started his speech: 'I'm not worthy to be called your son—'
But his father interrupted him! He called for the best robe, a ring, new sandals, and a PARTY. 'My son was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found!' That's how God feels about you!
What Can We Learn?
God's Love Never Gives Up
The father watched for his son every day. God is watching and waiting for you too!
It's Never Too Late to Come Home
No matter what you've done or how far you've wandered, you can always come back to God.
God Celebrates Your Return
Heaven throws a party when someone comes back to God. You are worth celebrating!
True Repentance Leads Home
The son admitted he was wrong and went back. That's all it takes!
Memory Verse
“For this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.”
Luke 15:24 (NLT)
Character Spotlight
The Father
Picture of God's Love
Fun Facts:
- ★Gave his son the inheritance
- ★Watched and waited for his return
- ★Ran to meet his son while still far away
Lessons from The Father:
- ✓God's love is unconditional and full of grace
Prayer Time
Read this prayer out loud!
Dear God, thank You that Your love for me never ends. When I mess up, help me to come back to You, knowing You are always waiting with open arms. Amen.
Family Discussion
Talk about these questions together!
Why did the father run to meet his son?
How does this story show what God's love is like?
Have you ever felt like you had walked far from God? What happened?
📚 For older kids & teensFun Activities
Activities to reinforce the story!
Color the Homecoming
Color the father running to his son!
Draw the Celebration
Draw the party the father threw for his son's return.
Find the Way Home
Help the prodigal son find his way back to his father's house!
