Why is the Prodigal Son an Easter story?

Why is the Prodigal Son an Easter story? (If you aren't familiar with the parable of the Prodigal Son, it can be found in Luke 15:11-26)

Call me slow, but until recently, I never considered the parable of the Prodigal Son to be an Easter story. Generally at this time of year, we dive into the radical act of love that took place on the Cross all those years ago, the lead up to this event, and what it looks like and means for us today. I never connected that the story of the Prodigal Son is the perfect example of what it looks like when we realise and choose to live in what He did for us on the Easter weekend.

BEFORE:

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23 NIV) Even before you knew it, you were separated from God. He gives us life, and we choose to take that and live it how we want to. Like the Prodigal Son, who prematurely requested his inheritance in order to squander it on a lavish lifestyle, we are fueled and motivated by our own desires, however temporarily satisfying they may be, until we surrender our lives to God and His purpose. Note the words 'temporarily satisfying'. The things of the world are quick fixes, bandaids for a broken arm. The world says that if it brings you pleasure or relief now, then why not?

THE ONE-EIGHTY:

But God has a higher plan for you! He's with you for the long run, and choosing to live a life that follows His plans won't just help your present situation. The decision to turn 180 degrees - away from what you knew and into what you now pursue - is the decision that will sustain you. Whe Prodigal Son eventually realised that his persistent emotion-driven choices were destroying him, the last thing he wanted to do was lower himself further to encounter his father. Swallowing his pride, he acknowledged that he wasn't even worthy to call himself his son anymore, after he had run so far. But what we find is that no matter how far away he had run, his father still ran to meet him. It doesn't matter how far you think you have gone, God is so ready for you to turn back to him.

AFTER:

But the story doesn't end there! When Jesus died on the Cross, he bridged the gap between you and God. He made a way for you to dwell with God for eternity, and not just live a life of purpose on earth, but beyond as well. When you choose to accept this radical sacrifice and show of love, God celebrates; His child returned home! In the parable, the father spared no expense for his son, but gave him the best of everything.

Did the father forget about his son's actions? No, but his love for him and the joy of his return was more important. The parable of the Prodigal Son paints a beautiful picture of the love, joy, and forgiveness of the Gospel - the Good News that God wants you and He made a way for you to come and be with Him!