Homily Second Saturday of Lent (Lk. 15:1-3, 11-32) “Extravagant Forgiveness”
Homily Second Saturday of Lent (Lk. 15:1-3, 11-32) “Extravagant Forgiveness”
The parable we read today is labeled as the “Story of the Prodigal Son.” The gospel writer really does not title the parables of Jesus. Other people have done that throughout the centuries.
I always wondered about the word, “prodigal.” If we look up prodigal in the dictionary, we find that the word describes someone who spends money in a foolish way. Someone who is extravagant in their taste is what we would call prodigal.
I always assumed that prodigal meant a person who is lost. I thought that it described someone who was estranged from others, specifically their family. I pictured a person who is wandering around in the world and trying to get back home.
But that is not what the word means at all. The sin of the younger son in the parable is that he was a foolish spendthrift. He did not know how to handle money. He was impractical. In other words, he was a lot like his father.
We might entitle this parable, “The Prodigal Father.” Why do I say that? Because the father was not a practical man. If someone takes money from us and wastes it, do we give them more money to squander? Most of us would not.
But this father welcomes his son back. He puts a ring on his finger. He gives him new clothes. He puts shoes on his feet. He throws a banquet to honor him. Oh, how much all of that probably cost! Didn’t the father know the value of a dollar? He let his heart lead him, not his head.
At the end of story, we are left with the impression that this is what our God is like. God is extravagantly merciful. God is not stingy with forgiveness. God’s overriding virtue is charity. Why then do we despair in our sinfulness? Why are we anxious today?
Reflection Questions:
- Who do I know that is overly generous? Do I consider them foolish or impractical?
- Am I known for my charity? How might I be more generous this Lent?
Dear Parishioners,
Today our second graders will be receiving their First Reconciliation. This might be a difficult day for them. It can be like the prodigal son going home to apologize to his father. None of us likes to own up to our shortcomings. Some children say they cannot think of anything they have done wrong.
I may have to ask them some questions like, “Have you never lied in your life?” Usually, they admit that they have at least a couple times. Then I have to say that even once counts. We go from there.
But the purpose of Reconciliation is not to concentrate on sin, but it is to reassure the penitent of forgiveness. Usually, by the end of First Reconciliation the children are happy. It is the happiness that being forgiven can bring.
Christians rejoice in that feeling and it is what makes our religion special.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.
Fr. Mark