But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. – Luke 15:22-24
The parable of the Prodigal Son often draws attention to the three primary figures—the father, the prodigal, and the elder brother. However, hidden within the narrative are characters who play an essential role in the restoration process: the servants of the father. Their presence may seem secondary, but their actions are vital to the unfolding story of redemption and grace. These silent servants exemplify the heart of spiritual restoration within the body of Christ.
Upon the prodigal’s return, the father immediately instructed the servants to begin the work of restoration. Without hesitation, they carried out the father’s commands, aiding in the son’s reinstatement to his rightful place. Though unnamed and often unnoticed, their role was indispensable. True restoration within the church similarly relies on the quiet, humble work of spiritual servants.
The Essential Work of the Servants
- Clothing the Prodigal with the Best Robe
The servants fetched the best robe and placed it upon the returning son. This robe symbolized righteousness, belonging, and honor. In the far country, the prodigal rehearsed his speech of unworthiness, yet the father cut him off, offering instead the covering of his own robe. The best robe was not just any garment; it was the father’s personal robe, representing acceptance and restoration.
Servants of restoration today are those who help fallen brothers and sisters see themselves through the lens of grace, not failure. They remind the broken that the righteousness of Christ covers their sins. “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness” (Isaiah 61:10). These spiritual servants make space in their lives and churches, offering seats and open arms rather than judgment and distance.
- Placing the Ring on His Hand
The ring represented authority, belonging, and the restoration of the prodigal’s standing as a son. By placing the ring on his finger, the servants declared that the young man was not a hired servant but a child of the house. This action silenced the prodigal’s internal dialogue of unworthiness and restored his confidence.
Spiritual servants today reaffirm the worth and identity of those returning from the far country. They counter the shame of past failures with the assurance of being co-heirs with Christ. “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15). Through encouragement and affirmation, they remind the restored that they have full access to the Father’s blessings.
- Placing Shoes on His Feet
Shoes signified freedom and sonship. In biblical times, slaves often went barefoot, while sons wore shoes. By providing shoes, the servants solidified the prodigal’s status as a son rather than a servant. This act reminded the son that he was not returning to a life of bondage but to one of privilege and relationship.
Spiritual servants today equip and encourage the restored to walk confidently in their faith. “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:15). They ease the path of restoration, ensuring that those who return feel supported and embraced rather than scrutinized and shamed.
- Preparing the Fatted Calf
The servants prepared the fatted calf for celebration, marking the prodigal’s full restoration and the father’s joy. This act of hospitality and generosity reflected the heart of the father and set the stage for communal rejoicing.
In the church, spiritual servants ensure that returning prodigals are not left spiritually or physically hungry. They offer fellowship, meals, and practical assistance. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). By attending to the tangible needs of the restored, they mirror the compassion and provision of the father.
- Joining the Father in Celebration
The servants did not stand in judgment; they celebrated alongside the father. The elder brother’s resentment stood in stark contrast to the servants’ joyful participation. Restoration brings joy to those who align their hearts with the father’s, recognizing the beauty of redemption.
Churches must foster environments where restoration is celebrated rather than resented. “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth” (Luke 15:10). Spiritual servants rejoice without reservation, amplifying the sounds of grace louder than the whispers of condemnation.
What the Servants Did Not Do
Notably, the father never instructed the servants to clean the son before clothing him. His filth and odor were overlooked, covered by the robe. Similarly, spiritual restoration should not demand perfection before acceptance. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Servants of restoration extend grace immediately, understanding that transformation is God’s work, not theirs.
The Call to Be Silent Servants
Restoration within the church is not reserved for pastors or church leaders alone. The silent servants—the greeters, encouragers, and those who quietly extend love—play a crucial role. Their ministry may not be spotlighted, but their impact is eternal. The church needs more spiritual servants, ready to bring robes, rings, and shoes to returning prodigals.
To all who humbly serve, restoring others in the spirit of meekness—thank you. Your role is vital to the heart of the Father and to the restoration of His beloved children.