First Reading - Micah 7:14-15,18-20
Gospel - Luke 15:1-3,11-32
In the first reading, the prophet Micah speaks of God’s incomparable mercy. He describes a God who does not stay angry forever but delights in showing love and compassion. The passage highlights how God forgives sins, casts them away, and remains faithful to His promises. The imagery of God shepherding His people shows His deep care and concern. Just as a shepherd leads and protects his flock, God leads us back to Himself, even when we stray.
The Gospel presents one of the most powerful parables of mercy—the Parable of the Prodigal Son. The younger son, in his pride and impatience, demands his inheritance and leaves home, squandering everything in reckless living. When he reaches his lowest point, he realizes his mistake and decides to return to his father. What happens next is truly remarkable. The father does not scold or reject him but runs to embrace him. Instead of condemnation, he receives love. Instead of punishment, he is given a robe, a ring, and a feast. This parable is not just about the younger son; it also speaks to the elder son, who struggles with resentment and self-righteousness. He cannot understand why his father is so generous to the one who wasted everything. Yet, the father’s love is the same for both—he invites the elder son to rejoice and share in the joy of reconciliation.
Dear friends, this parable is a reflection of our own relationship with God. At times, we may be like the younger son—choosing our own way, making mistakes, and distancing ourselves from God. Other times, we may be like the elder son—failing to understand God’s mercy and resenting His generosity toward others. But the message remains the same: God’s love is unconditional, and His mercy is always available.
Micah reminds us that God delights in showing mercy. Jesus, through the parable, shows us that God does not wait for us with judgment but with open arms. Whether we have wandered far or have remained close yet struggled with resentment, God calls us to reconciliation. He invites us to experience the joy of being fully loved and forgiven.
Let us reflect: Where do we see ourselves in this parable? Do we need to return to God, trusting in His mercy? Or do we need to open our hearts to celebrate the return of others, instead of holding on to resentment?
May we always trust in God's unfailing love. Let us come back to Him with confidence, knowing that He is a Father who runs to embrace us, no matter how far we have gone.
Let us pray for the grace to accept God's mercy and to share that same mercy with others.
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