The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, February 26, 2004
Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Micah 7:14-15,18-20
Psalm 103:1-4,9-12
Luke 15:1-3,11-32

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today's readings concern an inheritance promised by God from ancient times, yet squandered by dissolute living. Micah is very sensitive to issues of social justice, and places the blame for the loss of Israel's prosperity solely on their shoulders. Nevertheless, he is confident that God will restore their inheritance through their prayer and repentance. He holds out hope to them.

In the Gospel, the prodigal son has also lost his inheritance through foolish waste. He is completely at fault for his impoverished state. What is remarkable is the father's yearning for his son's return. It would seem that he has spent anxious days and nights keeping a lookout for him. For his part, the son dreams of former days when he enjoyed the security and comfort of home. These memories haunt him so powerfully, that he decides to return and throw himself on his father's mercy. Is it just these memories, or is it the powerful love of the Father that subtlety draws him back?

What a lesson for us! We have all been guilty of sin at one time or another. Perhaps even now we carry a burden of guilt that needs lifting. Today's readings give us an assurance of our heavenly Father's great yearning to forgive us, to embrace us. In humble gratitude, let us throw ourselves on the mercy of such a kind parent, and joyfully return to his Love.

- Msgr. Paul E. Whitmore
(smartins at twcny dot rr dot com)

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posted by joachim at 5:39 AM