Lent, Saturday of Week 2 – Micah 7:14-15,18-20; Luke 15:1-3,11-32
I recently stumbled upon some old moral theology manuals that spoke of penitence and the weight of sin. As I absorbed their teachings, I found myself envisioning pilgrims crawling on their knees along sacred paths to Rome, Jerusalem, Fatima – each exposed to the public, collectively seeking to make amends before the Lord.
This reflection brought to mind the biblical story of the prodigal son – a poignant image of a broken, yet repentant figure who seeks no more than to be a hired servant upon his return. And yet, he is unexpectedly welcomed with a joyful feast, music, and celebratory dances, adorned with the finest robe and a ring – symbols of his restored dignity. Indeed, sin strips us of our worth, leaving deep scars, and to embrace a sinner is to offer a transformative act of healing.
As joyous festivities unfold, I can’t help but wonder about those still toiling in the fields, hungry and alone. The father watches from a window, yearning and waiting, light aglow as a hopeful beacon. Why doesn’t he intervene? Why not offer a swift rescue? The answer is simple: love. True love allows for freedom; it respects the journey back home, however long that may take.
