The Lost is Found

Luke 15:17-24

The son's plan is to become a hired servant. A hired servant was not even part of the household but someone who would go home every night. The son's plan was to live off of the estate, earn enough to pay back all that he had squandered and, maybe one day, earn his way back into the family.
The father had a different plan. The fact that his son had squandered his wealth, ruined his reputation and insulted him did not change the fact that his son was his son. So, when he saw him off in the distance, he came running! He threw his arms around his son's neck and covered his face with kisses. He didn't even let his son explain his plan!
He gives him the best robe - this would have been the father's own robe. It would have made clear that the father was not going to wait for any payback, any groveling or contrition. The son was immediately restored into the family.
He gives him sandals or shoes. This would have indicated that the son was not a slave. He was a full member of the household. He would not have to work to earn his place back. He would not have to work to make up for his sin.
He gives him a ring. This was probably a sign of authourity. This meant that the father wasn't going to wait around to see if his son had truly changed. He wasn't going to give him a little bit of responsibility at a time and see if he could handle it. No, the son had full authourity to enter into business arrangements, to spend money, to purchase items, to sign contracts as a member of the family. This was a huge risk. This was not just a symbolic gesture. This meant that the son could waste the father's money all over again.
He kills the fattened calf. It seems like the father was preparing for this moment. The calf was fattened in anticipation of the son's return. This was not going to be an ordinary supper but a celebration feast where no expense would be spared. The son was home!
What had the son done to deserve this? Nothing! The father's love and acceptance are absolutely free. The father's love and acceptance are abundant - they will never run out. The lesson is that the grace of God is enough to pardon and restore every kind of sin and wrongdoing. It never, ever runs out. Not even if he has to forgive 7x70, 70x70 or 700x700 times.