This Sunday is the Sunday of the Prodigal Son, and in two weeks, we will begin the Great Fast (Lent). The parable in today’s gospel reading would have surprised those who heard Jesus tell it. The father demonstrated love by running to his wayward younger son, an action that was unexpected given his social and economic status. The father’s social status as a “patriarch”in Jesus’ times was that of the highest authority who did not have to answer to those under his household or authority. For a man in his position, such behavior would not align with the expectations of dignity, as he would have to hike up his garments to run, further diminishing his honor. Jesus not only reveals the love of God through this parable but also indicates that God has already acted in a similar manner towards humanity in the Incarnation, when God became human. 

The gospel reminds us of our identity as beloved children of God, encouraging us to come to our senses and return to our loving, forgiving Father. Regardless of our actions, the ways we have diminished ourselves, or how we have strained our relationship with God, He awaits our return, runs to greet us, and welcomes us back into His family with joy and celebration. Repentance is not about persuading God to change His mind about us; rather, it involves changing our own minds, hearts, and lives in order to return to God. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving do not alter the nature of the Lord; rather, they function as means to help us acknowledge our own sinfulness, our own pride, and allow us to receive the mercy, the making of us whole again, that Jesus Christ offers to those who repent, those that return to the Father. 

Peace and Grace,

Tim