Then the celebration began. (Luke 15:24)
We’ve all been there. Feeling far from God, we try to numb ourselves on the husks of movies or television, computer games, food, drink, or a thousand other things. But we remain unsatisfied, hungry for something more. Maybe a few of us have squandered our inheritance as dramatically as the younger son in this parable. Still, to most of us, “Father, I have sinned against you” is a well-known refrain. We have only to come to our senses and run to the Father, who awaits us, in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Don’t ever hesitate out of shame or fear of reprimand. The father in the parable doesn’t see his son’s return as a “teachable moment,” a time to underscore the perversity of what he has done. He doesn’t comment on his son’s pitiful actions and condition or pay them any particular attention. No, he turns his thoughts away from his son’s sins and begins issuing orders to the family servants: “Quickly, bring a robe . . . a ring . . . sandals.” This homecoming is worth far more of his attention than his son’s departure and dissipation. Joyfully the father shouts, “Let’s celebrate!”
Will God the Father do any less for you? Whenever you return to God from your “long way off,” he is there, arms wide open to welcome you, ready to celebrate your homecoming (Luke 15:20). He continually and joyfully anticipates the chance to be merciful and gracious to you. No lectures, no scathing rebukes, just mercy and joy. The Father meets your repentance with the garment of righteousness, which Jesus has secured for you by his death on the cross. He restores your ability, as his child, to stand with dignity and honor. And he offers shoes for your feet, that you might walk in his peace every day.
So receive what the Father offers you this Lent, and let the celebration begin! God’s love for you is beyond compare. Nothing can satisfy the longing of your heart as completely as he does. Let him wrap you in his arms today. Let him rejoice over you and fit you with his robe, ring, and sandals. Relax into his peace and his overarching delight in you.
“Father, thank you for the robe, the ring, and the sandals you offer me as I turn to you today.”
Micah 7:14-15, 18-20
Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12
Daily Marriage Tip for February 27, 2016:
Humor is often the best medicine. Learning to laugh and not taking ourselves too seriously can make life more enjoyable for us and our family.