WATCH: We Are Called to Go Looking for the Prodigal Sons

It’s a well-known story: an older brother and a younger brother and a very generous father. The younger son goes off and squanders the early inheritance he’s received, eventually ending up back at his father’s house, repentant. He’s welcomed home with joy by his father, and a wonderful party is given in his honor.

But the older, faithful brother isn’t pleased. He is envious, misunderstanding his father’s mercy and generosity, says biblical expert and author Jeff Cavins. Most of us have been one of these characters at different times in our lives. Cavins encourages us to remember the true meaning of God’s mercy and to remember we are called to go out in search of the prodigal sons and daughters and remind them of the same.