The parable of the prodigal son is about a father who runs to meet a returning son and restores him fully, and about an older brother who will not join the celebration. Heaven's joy over one sinner repenting is the point, and the elder brother's refusal is the danger the story leaves hanging.

This article explains that Revelation 3:19 teaches God disciplines those He loves to lead them to repentance, emphasizing His desire for a heart open to correction and renewal.

The disciples had watched Jesus feed a crowd twice and were still arguing about bread; his questions in Mark 8:18 press them on whether familiarity had made them blind.

Isaiah 55:6 urges the hearer to seek the Lord and call on him while he is near, presenting repentance as the urgent response to a freely offered covenant.