15
So he went to work for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him out to his farm to take care of the pigs.
16
He wished he could fill himself with the bean pods the pigs ate, but no one gave him anything to eat.
17
At last he came to his senses and said, "All my father's hired workers have more than they can eat, and here I am about to starve!
18
I will get up and go to my father and say, "Father, I have sinned against God and against you.
19
I am no longer fit to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired workers." '
20
So he got up and started back to his father. "He was still a long way from home when his father saw him; his heart was filled with pity, and he ran, threw his arms around his son, and kissed him.
21
"Father,' the son said, "I have sinned against God and against you. I am no longer fit to be called your son.'
22
But the father called to his servants. "Hurry!' he said. "Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet.
23
Then go and get the prize calf and kill it, and let us celebrate with a feast!
24
For this son of mine was dead, but now he is alive; he was lost, but now he has been found.' And so the feasting began.
25
"In the meantime the older son was out in the field. On his way back, when he came close to the house, he heard the music and dancing.