The answer
The parable of the Prodigal Son has three main characters: the father symbolizes our heavenly Father, the prodigal son returning home represents the sinner who repents (the gentiles) and the elder brother represents the attitude of the self-righteous (the Jews). The parable signifies man's freedom of will to choose to live with God or away from Him. Pursuing lusts and reckless living will result in a spiritual famine. It takes great courage by a person to come back to himself and admit his sin. His humility and self accusation became the cause of justification and glory. The Father waited for his son to return and gave him more than expected. God rejoices for the return of the repentant sinner. He will not deny us if we come to Him, and He will not shame us for our past actions. On the other hand, the elder son is locked in pride, envy and self-righteousness which prevented him from reaching out and receiving the lost who had repented.Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)