There’s a phrase in Jesus’ famous parable of the Prodigal Son that jumps out at me every time I read it:
“So the party began.” (Luke 15:24, NLT)
What a moment. What a line.
God throws parties. Did you know that? Not the kind filled with flashy lights and empty entertainment, but the kind filled with restoration, laughter, music, dancing, hugs, and tears of joy. The kind where Heaven rejoices over just one sinner who comes home.
That means you can start a party in Heaven.
Yes—you. Whether you’re a lifelong believer, a wandering prodigal, or someone caught somewhere in the middle.
Let me explain how it happens.
1. Come to Your Senses
Jesus tells us the prodigal son finally “came to his senses.” He realized that life apart from the Father had only brought him emptiness and shame. That’s the first step toward Heaven’s party: an honest moment with yourself.
No more pretending. No more hiding. No more blaming.
The Father isn’t looking for perfect words or polished prayers. Just turn your heart homeward. That alone sends shockwaves through Heaven.
2. Start the Journey Home
The son didn’t stay in the pigpen. He got up. He rehearsed what he’d say. But before he even finished his speech, the Father ran to him.
That’s God.
He’s not standing with arms crossed. He’s running with arms open.
You don’t have to clean yourself up first.
Just come home. Just move toward Him.
If you’re a believer who’s drifted, start the journey back. If you’re unsure where you stand, just whisper, “Father, I want to come home.” That’s all it takes.
3. Let the Father Redefine You
The son expected a lecture. He got a robe.
He expected rejection. He got a ring.
He expected humiliation. He got a celebration.
God doesn’t just forgive—you. He restores you.
He clothes you with dignity. He calls you son. He calls you daughter.
Too many believers walk around like they’re second-class citizens in God’s kingdom. Stop it. The Father isn’t interested in making you a hired servant. He wants you seated at the table, laughing with the family.
4. Rejoice Over Others Who Come Home
This story ends with a challenge to older brothers—those of us who have “been around the house” for a while.
The Father gently reminds the elder son,
“We had to celebrate. Your brother was dead and is alive again!”
Don’t stand outside the celebration in self-righteous disappointment. Join the joy.
Welcome every prodigal.
Lay down judgment.
Throw your arms around the broken and let the music play.
After all, someone else’s return doesn’t threaten your place—it reveals the Father’s heart.
Let’s Get This Party Started
You want to get a party started in Heaven?
Come home.
Help others find their way home.
Celebrate wildly when they do.
That’s the heart of our Father.
He’s not stingy with His joy.
He’s not slow to forgive.
He’s not indifferent to your return.
He’s watching.
He’s waiting.
And when you come home…
the party begins.
