Brothers and Sisters,
We’ve heard the parable of the prodigal son many times. We know this parable speaks to us about repentance and reconciliation but also about the extravagant love and mercy of the father. From the first action of the father to the throwing of an elaborate party in the end, this story contains many twists and turns all of which make the point that God’s love overcomes the reckless, despairing wanderings of His children. In the end, love conquers all. The parable has two major points. First, repentance means an absolute reversal of our broken status. The lost son has become a family member again. He is fully restored. The father’s acceptance of the penitent son is total. This is God’s grace. This is why God pursues sinners. Second, all of us should have joy when the penitent returns. Reconciliation involves not only God and the individual but also the individual and the community.
Today is a good day to place ourselves in the shoes of the prodigal son or the prodigal daughter. At times in our lives, we also have left the home of our God. We have wandered away to a distant place and perhaps we also have squandered what little we had. How long will we keep our distance from God? Are we afraid that God will never forgive us? Perhaps we think we do not deserve to be forgiven. And yet, God is always on the lookout for us, yearning for us, waiting for us to return home. God will never stop loving us! He longs to restore that loving relationship with Him. He shows us that restoring broken relationships involves profound actions. Strong, loving relationships always require reaching out to the other.
Where is our Lord calling us to mend broken relationships in our own life?
God Bless,
Deacon Howard
