As we gather on this Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent, the Church invites us to rejoice in anticipation of Christ’s victory over sin and death. Today, we hear one of the Bible’s most cherished stories from St. Luke’s Gospel—the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Have you ever felt distant from God, yearning for something more, only to discover that true joy awaits in his embrace?
This heartwarming tale introduces us to a father whose love knows no bounds and a younger son restless for freedom. The son, stifled by the familiar routines of home, dreams of excitement beyond his father’s house. He asks for his inheritance and departs for a faraway land, seeking to shape his own life. His journey symbolizes more than physical distance—it’s a spiritual drift from the father’s love.
At first, he revels in his newfound freedom. The parties are lively, the possibilities endless. But soon, the thrill fades. His money runs dry, his friends vanish, and he finds himself in a pigsty, envying the swine their scraps—a stark fall from the abundance he once knew. In this despair, he reflects: Is this the path I wanted? Is this the freedom I craved? Is there still hope? Weak but resolute, he decides to return home, unsure of his welcome. Now picture the father. Day after day, he gazes into the distance, his heart aching yet hopeful.
When he spots his son from far off, he doesn’t wait—he runs, arms outstretched, embracing him before the son can finish his rehearsed apology. Without hesitation, he calls for a feast, celebrating the return of his lost child. This is prodigal love—extravagant, unconditional, and boundless.
What a beautiful story—and what a mirror to our own lives! So many of us are like this son, chasing fulfillment in the world’s fleeting promises. We may seek happiness in wealth, pleasure, or independence, only to find emptiness staring back. Yet, like the son, we’re never too far gone. Even in our lowest moments—living, as it were, among the pigs—hope remains. God’s door is always open.
Pope John Paul II reminds us: “Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” True freedom isn’t selfish indulgence; it’s living in harmony with God, our families, and our community. The world tempts us with illusions of joy, but lasting happiness is found at home with our Father. This Lenten season calls us to examine our wanderings. Where have we strayed? What empty pursuits can we leave behind? The Prodigal Son’s return teaches us that no matter how far we’ve gone, God waits with infinite mercy. His embrace isn’t just for us alone—when one sinner repents, the whole community rejoices, just as the father’s feast united his household in celebration.
So, brothers and sisters, let us take courage as we journey through Lent. Turn away from the hollow promises of the world and run back to our Father’s house. He stands ready, not with judgment, but with love, eager to welcome us home. During these days of conversion, let’s embrace the opportunity to start anew, trusting that God’s mercy is greater than our failings. As we prepare for Easter, may we find ourselves in the loving arms of our heavenly Father, where true freedom, joy, and meaning await. Let’s step forward together, knowing the feast is prepared—not just for the Prodigal Son, but for each of us.
Rev. Dr. Mathew Charthakuzhiyil