Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

Readings of the Day

As I reflected on the readings for today, I couldn’t think of any contribution I could make that would add to the vast array of commentaries on the famous parable of the prodigal son. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit had other ideas.

A friend of mine recently plead guilty to federal fraud charges. He faces years of incarceration. The trauma his actions are causing his family is incapacitating. Many of us are working to help the family as best we can.

However, I am having difficulty forgiving him for his seemingly self-centered behavior. Then, along came the prodigal son reminder.  In the past, I’ve always felt sorry for the angry brother who can’t see past his ego to celebrate the reuniting of his family. As I’m reading the passage now, it hit me hard. I’m that brother in the life of my friend and his family.

I have no idea why my friend committed the crimes he admitted to committing. Just like we have no idea why the prodigal son left in the first place. But, true forgiveness can’t be found in the search for the motivation of others. Or, in the impact of the sins on others. True forgiveness comes from God’s mercy.

I pray that this mercy finds its way into my heart so that I can join my friend and his family when they are back together again. And, to be a real friend to him now, during his incarceration.

And that lesson needs to be carried into my work with returning citizens and all people in need.

“Who is a God like you, who removes guilt and pardons sin for the remnant of his inheritance; Who does not persist in anger forever, but instead delights in mercy.” Micah 7:18

Jack Murphy is a volunteer with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul. He is conference president of St. Thomas Aquinas parish in Alpharetta, GA and is national director of Advocacy and Systemic Change for The Society.

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