Luke 15:11–32 · Ages 6–12
The Prodigal Son
A son walked away from his father — and came home to a father who was already running to meet him.
Big idea
God isn't waiting to punish you. He's watching the road for you.
Read-aloud
1. Leaving home
A younger son asked for his inheritance early and left home. He wasted everything on wild living in a far-off country.
2. Rock bottom
A famine hit. He got a job feeding pigs and was so hungry he wanted their food. He thought, 'Even my father's servants eat better than this.'
3. Coming home
He rehearsed an apology and headed home. While he was still far off, his father saw him, ran to him, and hugged him — no lecture.
4. A party
The father threw a feast. 'This son of mine was lost and is found.'
Memory verse
“While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him.”
— Luke 15:20
Talk about it
- When have you felt far from God?
- How would it feel to be hugged before you finished apologizing?
- Who could our family welcome home this week?
Family prayer
Father, thank you for running to us. Help us come home and welcome others. Amen.
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