This parable reveals to us a Stifled Son who Spends and the Forgiving Father who offers Freedom.
The dictionary defines the word prodigal as meaning…Wasteful or recklessly extravagant: lavish or lavishly abundant. In understanding the word we can see how the younger son in seeking freedom lived prodigally. But we also see that the Father, like our heavenly father is prodigal in his treatment towards his returning son. He lavishes his son with love, mercy and forgiveness. It gives such a clear gospel picture for all those who will repent and come to God.