"While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion." (Lk 15:20)
This is the Fourth Sunday of Lent or Laetare Sunday. The tone of today is joy. Despite sin and the consequences of it, we have hope in a merciful Father. Luke Chapter 15 reveals God's merciful love. As long as we repent, the Father awaits us with loving arms. He forgives and forgets our sins so that our burden is taken away.
However, the Father doesn't leave the house but waits for the son to return. It is never easy confessing our sins but the joy we experience makes the effort worthwhile. Jesus knocks at the door but it can only be opened from the inside. He simply waits for us in the Sacrament of Confession, sometimes for a long time. He told the Samaritan woman "If you knew the gift of God." Let us not put off the freedom God desires to give us.
Question for Reflection:
- When was my last Confession?
- What keeps me from approaching Christ in such a wonderful sacrament?
- Do I realize that when I confess with sincerity and contrition, it's impossible not to leave renewed and restored?