To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Commentary of the Gospell
God’s Desire to Love Us
The English novelist D. H. Lawrence wrote, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But it is a much more fearful thing to fall out of them.”
The parable of the Prodigal Son has a lot of layers, but at its core is God’s desire to love and welcome us into his arms. The story begins with a young man choosing to turn away from his father and continues with a description of the repercussions of that choice.
In what ways have we turned away from God? What have been the consequences of those choices? As we continue to read, the young man “comes to his senses” and repents, asking for mercy and forgiveness. We should notice that nowhere in the story is the young man called to repentance. All he does is recall his father and the memory of the father’s love and generosity is so strong and vivid that it evokes a natural response of regret, repentance, and the desire for reunion.
As soon as he returns, and not a moment later, the father embraces his son without chastisement or criticism. God so desires to love us and to welcome us home. Today, remember God’s mercy, compassion, and infinite love.
Acting on today’s Gospel, consider reminding someone that they’re loved by giving them a hug like the father in our story!