Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s talk, “The Prodigal and the Road That Leads Home,” illustrates the timeless parable of the prodigal son, emphasizing the message that no matter how far one has strayed from God and the Church, there is always a welcoming path to return to Him. This parable is a reflection of God’s boundless love, mercy, and compassion for His children, urging us to find our way back to Him and experience the joy of reconciliation and forgiveness.
A Certain Man Had Two Sons
Elder Uchtdorf begins by retelling the parable of the prodigal son, highlighting the poignant moment when one of the sons leaves home and squanders his inheritance. The parable’s central theme is introduced, focusing on the son’s departure and the father’s reaction.
“A certain man had two sons.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Luke 15:11-32: The full text of the parable of the prodigal son.
- Luke 15:4-7: The parable of the lost sheep.
The Great Adventure
Elder Uchtdorf describes the prodigal son’s reckless journey, filled with worldly desires, freedom, and newfound friends. However, his choices eventually lead to poverty and despair, teaching him valuable lessons about happiness and the price of straying from the path of righteousness.
“He must have been a favorite of many, for he spent money freely. His new friends—beneficiaries of his prodigality—did not judge him. They celebrated, applauded, and championed his choices.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
- Matthew 7:13-14: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
The Famine
As the prodigal son’s situation worsens, he realizes the emptiness of his choices and experiences both physical and spiritual hunger. He reflects on the consequences of his actions and longs for his father’s forgiveness and acceptance.
“He had been so sure that giving in to his worldly desires would make him happy, that moral laws were obstacles to that happiness. Now he knew better. And oh, what a price he had to pay for that knowledge!”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
The Return
The prodigal son, facing desperation and regret, decides to return to his father, even though he fears the consequences. This section explores the son’s decision to go back, the father’s reaction, and the powerful message of forgiveness and love.
“Our Heavenly Father will run to us, His heart overflowing with love and compassion. He will embrace us; place a robe around our shoulders, a ring on our finger, and sandals on our feet; and proclaim, ‘Today we celebrate! For my child, who once was dead, has come back to life!’”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Mosiah 26:30: “As often as my people repent will I forgive them their trespasses against me.”
- 3 Nephi 9:13-14: “Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?”
The Celebration
Elder Uchtdorf concludes by addressing the audience directly, emphasizing that the parable of the prodigal son is a powerful message for all, offering hope and encouragement to return to the Savior’s embrace. He reassures that God’s love and mercy are boundless, and our return is cause for rejoicing in heaven.
“No matter what may have happened in your life, I echo and proclaim the words of my beloved friend and fellow Apostle Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: ‘It is not possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ’s [atoning sacrifice] shines.’”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Alma 36:18: Alma’s experience of repentance and conversion.
Calls to Action
- Embrace the message of the prodigal son and find the courage to return to the path of righteousness, seeking God’s forgiveness and love.
- Extend love, compassion, and acceptance to those who are struggling and may be on their own prodigal journey.
- Remember that God’s love and mercy are boundless, and our return to Him is cause for celebration in heaven.