Glory be to Jesus Christ!
When was the last time you felt overjoyed enough to run out to meet someone? Running was something that grown men did not do in Jesus’ time (unless they were athletes of course.) When we hear of grown men running in the Gospels we are meant as readers to roll our eyes in response to the silliness. The parable of the Prodigal Son shows the love of the Father for us in such a deep way that it is sometimes referred to as “The Gospel within the Gospel.” This story has been one which has inspired beautiful art from around the world- and continues to inspire us to consider our response to our own sinfulness and need to return to the Father, but also our response to others who have sinned and who are returning home.
Once a person had done the things which this son did- essentially wished death upon his father through his demand for his inheritance- and set out on his own the the detriment of all those who would have been working under the father, the common practice would have been to drive him away if he were to return. As far as the household servants were concerned “he was dead to them.” And yet, what do we see? The father waiting for his son and running out to him (to beat the servants to him, to protect him) and to welcome him home as a son, and an heir, not as a slave.
Do we respond like the father? Or do we respond as the older brother? As we prepare to engage in the Great and Holy Fast, let us keep in mind both our need to depart from our sinful life and return to the Father who loves us, but also the example love of the Father in regards to the forgiveness of others.
Glory be to Jesus Christ!
