The parable of the prodigal son is a parable of freedom and filiation. The prodigal son and his older brother both misuse their freedom. They mistakenly feel constrained by their relationship with their father and end up rejecting him. The prodigal son rediscovers his sonship by reflecting on the truth of his situation. This speaks to a close connection between true freedom and the truth itself. The elder son acts correctly for the most part, but does so without charity, without an identification with his father's heart. This leads him to a resentful and self-righteous fulfillment of his duties. To avoid all of these pitfalls, we look to Jesus, who always acts freely because he always wants to please his most loving Father.
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