Now his older son was in the field; as he came near the house, he heard music and dancing.
Luke 15:25 CSB
The older son was doing what he was supposed to be doing. He was hard at work in the fields. And it seems nobody had told him what was happening. He was in the dark about the situation.
This is important background for the rest of the story. This son was not left out of the preparation because he was not considered. On the contrary, the father expected that his other son would be just as overjoyed as he.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love, devotion, and kindness to us. You have poured out all the wrath for our sins. You did not forgive us by deferring Your judgement. You filled Your own justice. Oh glorious wonder! Thank You! You are powerful and wise and holy. I will praise Your glorious Name for ever and ever! In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.