Prodigal Son

A Chinese artist was commissioned to portray the parable of the prodigal son. So he chose that part of the story where the wayward boy returns home after having wasted his resources in reckless living. He depicted the father standing by the gate waiting for his son, who could be seen approaching in the distance.

When the artist showed the painting to a Christian friend, the man exclaimed, "Oh no, you don't have it right at all! The father shouldn't be standing still, he should be eagerly running to meet his son!" "But no Chinese father would ever consider doing that to one who had been so wayward," answered the other in surprise. "Ah," said the Christian, "but this parable depicts the heart of God. He is far more loving than even the best of human parents."

-Sermons Illustrated May/June 1990