intense heartache; so, this powerful story of forgiveness challenges us to imitate the gentle, merciful father, who is truly the hero of the story. Yet lurking in the shadows is a figure we all know: a frowning, finger-wagging, petulant enemy of grace who never fails to spoil a good story of reconciliation. Who does this older brother represent? The answer is both obvious and surprising. The story unfolds in three acts: Act 1: Wayward Lad and Waiting Dad (15:12–16) Act 2: Repentant and Restored (15:17–24)