In yesterday’s Gospel at Mass, we heard the especially beautiful parable of Jesus that teaches God is understanding and merciful beyond measure (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32).
The younger sonwho asks for his share of the inheritance represents the one who rebels from God, seeking to live apart from Him. The catastrophic physical, emotional and spiritual affects of sin are clearly seen. What also is lost through sin is true freedom as the stranglehold of Satan tightens.
The older sonis devoured by jealousy that cuts him off from the family. Although he does not physically leave as his brother did, equally disastrous rebellion from God is seen in self-reliance and self-pity that fuels a wild fire of envy.
“What joy to remember that our Lord is just: that He makes allowances for all our shortcomings, and knows full well how weak we are. What have I to fear then? Surely the God of infinite justice who pardons the prodigal son with such mercy will be just with me who am always with Him” (Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower +1897). Of course, the same can be said of the elder son.
