Saturday of the Second Week
Feast of Saint Joseph
The parable of the Prodigal Son usually focuses on God’s infinite mercy and love. Yet in today’s reading, I was struck by a part I often overlook. After living a life of sin, a source of heartbreak and disappointment to his father, the son has a moment of “coming to his senses”. He recognizes he is on the wrong path-and takes responsibility for his actions saying “I have sinned against Heaven and against you.” Then, he makes a conscious decision. He chooses to change his course and returns to his father. I began to think that this is one of the reasons the father in this parable is so happy to see his son- the impetuous and selfish youth returns with wisdom, humility and self-awareness.
What
the prodigal son does is difficult- it’s never pleasant to look at
ourselves honestly and own up to our sins. And yet, can we really move
forward in our relationship with God and others if we don’t do this?
Acknowledging the harm, we cause to ourselves, to others or to our
relationship with God helps us to become mature. Yes, God is infinitely
merciful and will forgive us our failures and faults- but to become
fully free we must face our sinfulness. We must freely admit when we do
wrong, and make a choice to change our behavior going forward. In doing
so God, like the father in this parable, will not only forgive us but
will embrace us, celebrate with us and rejoice in our growth.
Prayer
Merciful and loving God, help me to come to my senses. Grant me the wisdom to see my sins, the courage to confess them and the strength to correct them. Amen.
Amy Rock-Wardwell, ’96, Member of the Worshipping Community
First Reading: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20
Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12
Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website
