Today’s parable is one of the best-known stories in the Bible. While it is generally called the parable of the prodigal son, the focus is not only on the prodigal son and his repentance but on the father and his mercy. Incidentally, the story could be called the parable of the resentful brother, since it is also about a brother who was very indignant about his younger brother’s self-indulgence and angry with his father for showing mercy towards him. Resentment has stolen his joy. He has been loyal to his father and his estate, an upright member of the community, and feels he deserves to be the sole inheritor of his father’s wealth. The father’s mercy and love encompass both sons. He wants not only his younger son back, but his elder son as well. This is not a story that separates the 2 brothers into the good one and the evil one. It is only the father who demonstrates goodness. He wants both to participate in his joy. The father’s unreserved love is offered wholly and equally. He doesn’t compare the 2 sons.
The prodigal son is that part of us which is rebellious and irresponsible with the gifts God has placed in our lives. Perhaps we are takers who gather everything we can to ourselves, or squander what we have. Perhaps we don’t show appreciation for our parents and families. Today’s parable teaches that God offers people a second chance. God doesn’t give up on us when we do things that are wrong and will always forgive us if we truly repent. And what can we learn from the older brother’s jealousy? Are you carrying a resentment that is stealing your joy? Have you tried to be less judgmental? How willing are you to reflect on this story for the rest of Lent, and do something about it so that Easter joy can be yours? Lent is an opportunity for new beginnings for ourselves and perhaps we should take the opportunity to give one another a second chance, to show mercy, learning from the father in the story.