Fr. Marvin’s Reflection - March 30, 2025          Fourth Sunday of Lent  - “Laetare (Rejoice) Sunday”  

In today’s Gospel (Lk 15:1-3, 11-32), we read the well-known parable of the Prodigal Son, which reveals the merciful and forgiving heart of the Father. The father patiently waits with love and compassion for his wayward son. When he sees his son from a distance, “he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him” (Lk 15:20). Though the son feels unworthy, the father celebrates his return: “This son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found” (Lk 15:24).

God the Father’s love is overflowing with mercy for all sinners who seek to return to Him. God eagerly pursues us, desiring to reveal His merciful heart and heal the wounds of our sin and disobedience. When we let the Father’s love take hold, our identity as beloved sons and daughters is renewed and restored.

Lent is the perfect time to pursue the Father's heart and allow Him to heal any wounds and sins that hinder our relationship with Him. St. Augustine said, “Because God has made us for Himself, our hearts are restless until they rest in Him.” May our Lenten journey bring us to rest in the Father’s merciful, kind, and compassionate heart.

 How might the story of the Prodigal Son inspire you to embrace God’s mercy during this Lenten season?

In Christ, 

Fr. Marvin