Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (Lk 15:1-3, 11-32)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032722-YearC.cfm
In the context of the Eating and Drinking with Sinners, Luke places three parables: the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, the Lost Son. Today we have the Parable of the Lost Son (or the Prodigal Son). It’s significant that all three parables end with a joyful celebration because what was lost has been found. May our Eucharistic celebrations reflect that same joy. As the Entrance Antiphon says: "Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult." The sufferings of Ukraine and its people remain in our prayers. Today's picture is the Return of the Prodigal by Rembrandt. Today’s song is La Alegría en el Perdón that sings of the joy when the lost son returns home.
These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.
IV SUNDAY of LENT (Laetare)
