This Gospel of the Parable of the Prodigal Son comes on the heels of last week’s Gospel on the Barren Fig Tree. In that parable, we were reminded that the gardener took great care of the fig tree with the hope that it would bear fruit. He would not give up on the tree, and so it is with God the Father. He never gives up on us. This weekend, the Gospel clearly demonstrates this reality with the father in the parable. It also gives us a glimpse into the heart of God the Father. The father in the Gospel responds lovingly and mercifully to the sins of both of his sons. The younger son’s sins are more apparent by the manner in which he squandered his inheritance, while the sins of the older son are more disguised. Both showed greed, contempt for the father, and a certain sense of entitlement. In both instances the father treats his sons with compassion, forgiveness, and hope. I cannot emphasize enough how this Gospel scene is played out each time we go to the Sacrament of Confession. The Father warmly embraces each of us as the words of absolution are prayed. The joy of the Father over a repentant sinner is profound. He wraps His arms around us and welcomes us back into a relationship with Himself and with those around us. Live this Gospel today by availing yourself of the Sacrament of Confession. The Father is waiting for you.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne