Saturday of the Second Week of Lent March 13, 2004 Scripture: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 Reflection: We know the story, the parable of the prodigal son. It is the gospel for two days in the next two weeks and perhaps for a penance service during Lent. The younger son – immature, foolish, selfish – leaves his father after receiving the inheritance. Then there is the brother – unloving, unforgiving, selfish. He stayed with the father but complained he never received so much as a goat to celebrate with his friends, after having received half of all the father owned! It seemed that Jesus told the parable to the Scribes and Pharisees who were judging everyone as sinners and criticizing Jesus for associating with them. There are not many characters here with whom we want to identify. There is, however, the father portrayed in Psalm 103, the response, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits; he pardons all your iniquities…heals all your ills…crowns you with kindness and compassion…fills your lifetime with good…” He says, “You are with me always and all I have is yours.” The imagery is unmistakable; creature and Creator, sinner and Savior, human being and God. Suggested Action: Bring into conversation today the parable of the prodigal son, or a homily or meditation on him in an effort to grow in the knowledge of and relationship with the Father. Sr. Harriet Jackson, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania