SATURDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Mic 7: 14-15, 18-20 Ps 103: 1-4, 9-12 Lk 15: 1-3, 11-32
WHAT IS OUR HEAVENLY FATHER LIKE?
Jesus knew His heavenly Father intimately, and so He told a parable that revealed the deepest truth about His Father’s heart. We are called to reflect on this parable today with openness and humility.
First, God does not give up on us. The father in this parable was treated unjustly by his younger son. He could have spent his days nursing his wounds and rehearsing his pain. Instead, he scanned the horizon each day, hoping that his son would have a change of heart and return to him. Even when we have given up hope on ourselves or our loved ones, God never does.
Second, God is compassionate. We might expect anger or resentment to rise up in the father when he spots his son. Instead, he is “filled with compassion.” He sees what his son has suffered, and instead of rejecting him, he throws his arms around him and welcomes him home without conditions. That is how God treats us. He is not angry at us because we have sinned; He simply longs to restore our broken relationship with Him.
Third, God celebrates. The father in the parable does not just give his son some leftovers to eat; he kills the fatted calf and orders a feast. This is no time for recriminations—no, it is time to celebrate, because his son “has come to life again.” When we repent and return to the Father, He rejoices. He sees not the sin, but the new life He desires and lovingly creates within us.
Finally, God cares for every one of us. The older son was naturally resentful, but the father assured him of his love and gently begged him to join in the celebration. God wants us to feel secure in His love and just as joyful as He is when a lost person returns to their true home. This is what the Heavenly Father is like. So let us praise and thank Him for His love, mercy, and unfailing faithfulness.
Response: The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
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