Welcome to Exaudi! Today, we have a special reflection from Bishop Enrique Díaz Díaz on the Gospel for this Sunday, March 30, 2025, titled “The Heart of the Father.”
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Let’s dive into the readings for this Sunday:
- Joshua 5:9, 10-12: “The people of God celebrated the Passover upon entering the Promised Land”
- Psalm 33: “Test the Lord and see how good he is”
- 2 Corinthians 5:17-21: “God reconciled us to himself through Christ”
- Luke 15:1-3, 11-32: “Your brother was dead and is alive again”
The parable of the prodigal son is one of Jesus’ most touching stories, inviting us to reflect on forgiveness, redemption, and the unwavering love of the Father. While the focus is often on the prodigal son and the merciful father, let’s not forget the elder son who also plays a crucial role in the narrative.
As we delve into the parable, we see the Father’s unconditional love and grace extended not only to the wayward son but also to the resentful elder son. The Father’s desire for reconciliation and unity among his sons challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards forgiveness and acceptance.
Through the characters of the prodigal son, the elder son, and the loving Father, we are called to reflect on our own relationships with God and others. Are we willing to humbly return to the Father’s embrace, or do we harbor resentment and judgment like the elder son?
This Lent, let us open our hearts to the Father’s mercy and strive for reconciliation with both God and our neighbors. May we heed the call to return to the Father’s house and experience the fullness of his love and forgiveness.
Let us pray:
Lord, Father of Mercy, guide us to break down the barriers that separate us from one another and from You. Grant us the courage to acknowledge our faults, seek repentance, and embrace the love and forgiveness you offer. Amen.
