Coming Home: A Laetare Sunday Reflection on the Prodigal Son
This Sunday, as we celebrate Laetare Sunday—a moment of joyful anticipation in the midst of Lent—we're invited to pause and rejoice in the mercy and love of a Father who never gives up on His children. Today’s Gospel brings us to one of Jesus's most well-known parables: the story of the Prodigal Son. But perhaps more than a story of a wayward son, this is about the relentless love of a waiting Father.
As our pastor reminded us, “prodigal” means “wasteful.” And wasteful he was—the young man demanded his inheritance early, essentially wishing his father dead, and ran off to live in reckless extravagance. He squandered everything on fleeting pleasures—partying, women, and indulgence—only to find himself alone, destitute, and feeding pigs for survival. In his rock-bottom moment, he finally came to his senses.
That awakening is the turning point. The son recognizes his sin and rehearses a humble plea: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” And yet, what does the father do? He doesn’t scold. He doesn’t demand a list of wrongs. Instead, he runs—yes, runs—to embrace him, robe him, and restore him. He doesn’t just receive him back. He celebrates him.
The Prodigal Son
This is God's heart. Our Father is not passive in His love. He is watching, waiting, and eager for our return.
As our pastor shared so beautifully, this parable shows us that God’s forgiveness is not merely a pardon but a transformation. In the words of Scripture:
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
“Do you think that I like to see wicked people die? Of course not! I want them to turn from their evil ways and live.” (Ezekiel 18:23)
No matter how far we’ve wandered or how long it’s been—10 years, 20, even 50—God’s arms remain open. His mercy is not delayed. It is not distant. It is present. Ready. Available.
This is why Lent is so powerful. It’s not just a season of giving things up—it’s a season of coming home.
St. Paul reminds us in today’s second reading that “God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them.” The invitation is clear: be reconciled. Come home. Whether you’ve been away from the Sacrament of Reconciliation for decades or just a few months, this is the time. Do not fear shame or rejection; reclaim your place at the table.
Our Loving Father
The older son in the parable reminds us of caution: sometimes we think we’re close to the Father because we’ve never left physically—but our hearts may still be far away. The invitation is for all of us: younger sons, older sons, and everyone. Come back. Rejoice. Be renewed.
This Laetare Sunday, let’s receive the joy from reconciliation—not just as a feeling but as a gift of healing. As we move closer to Easter, may we be people who know the love of the Father, who accept His mercy, and who mirror His compassion in our own lives.
Have you been able to come to your senses yet? If so, the Father is already running to meet you.