Readings: Mic 7: 14-15, 18-20; Lk 15: 1-3, 11-32
The readings of today make me wonder at God’s compassion and steadfast love, stirring reflections on awesome love and mercy towards his people. This love enables God to forgive even the most hardened sinners when they repent and return to Him. He never loses hope in his people, he patiently waits for their return.
The first reading emphasizes the qualities of our God, who pardons our iniquities and holds no anger against us. The Gospel presents the parable of the lost son, which Jesus uses to illustrate God’s mercy and compassion, particularly to the Pharisees and Scribes who criticized Jesus for associating with sinners.
The father in the parable rejoiced at the return of his lost son. He was happy to see his son. He accepted his conversion of heart and showed him love. This story invites me to share in the joy of repentance and conversion with our Heavenly Father during Lent. It encourages me to recognize my shortcomings before God and to have genuine confession to experience his compassion and steadfast love during this season.