In the first reading, the Israelites created a false god to worship, breaking the First Commandment. Although technically they didn't know about the Commandments yet, this was still a jerk move considering He had just brought them out of slavery. Similarly, the famous prodigal son demands his inheritance from his father (another jerk move) and spends it all before realizing the error of his ways. Once again, the father (representing God), brings his wayward some back into him embrace with no recrimination.
Once we return to God, all is forgiven (although the courts might not see it the same way). He mercy is as infinite and enduring as He is. In fact, like the father in today's Gospel reading, He will even meet us on our way back to Him.