Jesus used parables when teaching. Parables are earthly stories that have a heavenly meaning. In using parables, the Lord was able to teach a spiritual concept in such a way that even the most illiterate person would be able to understand. Therefore, the parables are filled with symbolism.
             "The parable of the Prodigal Son" is an earthly story that shows how pleased God is when a sinner repents and comes back to Him. The father of this parable represents God who is the Father of all mankind. This "certain man" provides for his two sons; however, the younger son, the prodigal, is impatient with the restraints placed upon him. He, therefore, wants his inheritance now to spend as he pleases, to be free from the household rule of his father. This prodigal son represents the sinner who wants to go his own way without being accountable to anyone or even God.
             This younger son "took a journey into a far country." In this journey he spent all that was given to him in a wasteful manner. This shows that a sinner is fare from God and doing whatever he wants without any thought to the consequences that might come.
             After spending everything "there arose a famine in the land." This famin symbolizes how worldly pleasures cannot satisfy the spirit. The prodigal was then thrown into degradation and the only means of earning a living was feeding pigs, which is the lowest job a Jew could perform.
             Finally this young man remembers how well his father's servants are treated and fed. He decides to return to his father's house and beg forgiveness. Upon returning home, his father who has been watching and waiting for him, welcomes him back with a great feast. The return of the prodigal shows that a sinner who comes to God in faith and repentance is welcomed back with love and mercy.
             However, the older son who has faithfully remained home working for his father is upset by this generous welcome. He complains about the compass...