Birth, Not Behavior

Jesus was a master storyteller, and his characters are well known, even to those who have never cracked the cover of a Bible. His famous Parable of the Prodigal Son features two sons and their father. The brothers represent the range of human behavior, from rebellious to self-righteous. Their father represents a father who deeply loves his children, regardless of how they act. We are meant to see ourselves in this parable. Whether we are wayward prodigals or dutiful children, God's love is our birthright. So, why do we have such a hard time living in the freedom of his unconditional love?