In the first reading from Joshua, Chapter 5, God tells us that he has “rolled away the disgrace of Egypt”. In the Gospel we hear the story of the Father who welcomed back the son who had disgraced his family and the older brother who resented the Father's love and forgiveness. This section is often mistitled The Prodigal Son, when it is really all about the Father. Also in Paul's letter to the Corinthians, we are reminded that we have been reconciled to God in and through Christ Jesus. Why is it that we can’t seem to really believe it is true when we say “The Word of the Lord”?
In today’s readings we hear about a God who loves us and always wants us to come back and is willing and waiting to take us back. So what does it mean to me that God loves me that much? How am I to live this passionate love in my life?
Each one of us will have a different answer, but I believe that if I can truly get my head and heart around the fact that God loves me and wants me to love each person I meet, then what do I need to leave behind as the younger son did? What do I have to accept in community, in Church, in life to celebrate with those who “come home”? How can I welcome and accept each person I meet as one who is the Presence of God for me?
Some of us are called to be prophets to speak God’s Truth. Some of us can do this only in prayer and in how we live each moment in Love and Gratitude. God of Love and Compassion, help me to hear your Word and live it each moment so others may become aware of you through my life.
Anne Rajotte, CSJ