The parable of the Prodigal Son reveals the depths of God’s mercy. One of the primary symbols of joy is the house where the father and both sons once happily lived. The story revolves around both sons’ exile from that house, each for different reasons. The young son went far away from the house in his lust for pleasure and independence. For the older son, it was resentment that kept him outside his home. The home is a symbol of communion with God and one another as we live united in trust and love. It is a state of life where we are at our best and most joyful – not wallowing in resentment like the older son and saying no to a life of selfishness as lived by the younger. Lent is a time to leave resentment and selfishness behind. It is a time to come home. It is a time to ‘make your home in me as I make mine in you’ (John 15:4). Home is where the heart is, and home is where God wants us to be’.

Just reflect on the beautiful symbols in today’s story, the father’s embrace, his joy, the beautiful robe, the ring, and the festive banquet; these are all symbols of that new life – pure worthy, and joyful – that God is offering to anyone who returns to Him and to the bosom of His family, which is the Church. Only the heart of Christ Who knows the depths of his Father’s love could reveal to us the abyss of his mercy in so simple and beautiful a way.

CONFESSIONS

I shall hear confessions after the six pm mass on Saturday evenings

Sin exists, as is evident at every level, from individual human relationships to international wars. We all sin and, therefore, we all need forgiveness. We are not yet the saints that we are called to become through our Baptism. To ignore the reality of sin in our lives, or minimise it, can limit our ability to be in relationship with God. Servant of God, Archbishop Martinez, who was from Mexico said:

“For all sin, grave or light, large or small, wounds God’s divine heart and, since we love him, naturally we should feel great sorrow for having offended him.”