His Father's Heart

The Father loved them both...
So he waited on the porch hoping they would come...

His older son was always the "Good One"
being respectful, getting his chores done
They shared the same home--but not the same mind
The son, proud and selfish-the Dad, firm and kind

His younger son was always in trouble
To get his own way he was very subtle
He followed the road to sin and high living
Until in the pig slop he found himself slipping

               ***************

"I have sinned against heaven and in thy sight and am no more worthy to be called thy son."

Now younger son lives in the Father's care
Humbly forgiven, forsaking sins snare
Serving daily in God's Word and prayer
Loving prodigals the burden they share

               ***************

"Lo, these many years do I serve thee neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment"

But older son waited out in the field
His selfish resentment would never yield
Bitterly complaining aside he turned
His Father's grace and mercy spurned

               ***************

To which son did the Father give the ring, the robe, and the shoes?

To the one who knew his Father's heart!