17
But when he came to himself he said, "How many of my father's hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger!
18
I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you;
19
I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands." '
20
So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him.
21
Then the son said to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'
22
But the father said to his slaves, "Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.
23
And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate;
24
for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!' And they began to celebrate.
25
"Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing.
26
He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on.
27
He replied, "Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.'