Theologian Brian J. Pierce brings a startling perspective to the parable of the Prodigal Son, one of the most beloved stories of scripture. He imagines the parable as a commentary on the story of Jesus himself, who entered the world of suffering and sin to bring the good news of the radical mercy of God: that we are all his beloved children. While shedding new light on the gospel, this imaginative reading bears implications for a church that enters compassionately into the world of those on the margins.