The Lord is kind and merciful. — Psalm 103:8

Mass Readings: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20/Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 

The First Step 

There’s not a parenting book or podcast out there that could have prepared the father in today’s Gospel for the shenanigans of his prodigal son. First, the boy asked for his inheritance early, which was the cultural equivalent of saying, “Dad, I wish you were dead.” Then he squandered everything, and came home with nothing but a bag of dirty laundry for Mom. 

For all his blunders, though, there’s one thing the young man did absolutely right. “Father,” he wept, “I have sinned against heaven and against you.” When the son acknowledged his wrongdoing, he made the first, and most important step toward healing. As we, who are all prodigal sons and daughters, continue into this season of Lent, may we too bring our penitent hearts to the Father, who is eager to forgive. 

Prayer: Father, I’ve wandered into far country, but I’m ready to come home.