Jesus’ story of the Prodigal Son may not just be about God’s lavish welcome of the son who goes and squanders his life… but also about those of us who have lived by the rules.

It is true that God lavishes love on everyone who turns to him – those who have thus far squandered their lives, as well as those who have sacrificed in order to do what is right by others.

But the story of the other brother in the Prodigal Son is that we need to ask for what we want, when we want and need it. Jesus gives us permission to ask for help, permission to ask for celebration and love.

This sermon was preached on March 31, 2019. The readings it is based on can be found here. It was preached at Trinity Episcopal Church in Warsaw, NY by the Rev. Sare Liz Anuszkiewicz.