The Lord is Kind and Merciful

Homily/Sermon: Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

There is a joke that says: "A child told his father, ‘Dad, I am sorry for making a mess.’ The father replied, ‘I forgive you, son.’ Then the child asked, ‘So… no punishment?’ The father smiled and said, ‘No, because I love you.’ The child ran off, happy—until he stepped into the mess he had just made!"

This is how God's mercy works. He forgives us, but sometimes we still face the consequences of our choices. However, His love never fails. Today’s readings remind us of God’s unfailing kindness, especially in the story of the Prodigal Son.

The first reading from Micah highlights God's mercy, describing how He does not stay angry forever but delights in showing compassion. The Psalm echoes this, celebrating a God who "does not treat us according to our sins" but is kind and forgiving.

Then, in the Gospel, Jesus tells the famous parable of the Prodigal Son—a story of a young man who takes his inheritance, squanders it, and returns home ashamed. Instead of punishment, the father runs to embrace him and celebrates his return. This story is not just about the prodigal son—it is also about the elder brother, who struggles to understand the depth of the father’s mercy. Sometimes, we are like the prodigal son, needing forgiveness; other times, we are like the elder brother, struggling to forgive others.

Eucharist

At the Eucharist, we experience the very heart of God’s mercy. Each time we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we are reminded that Jesus gave Himself for us, not because we deserve it, but because of His boundless love.

Question for Reflection

- Have I ever been reluctant to accept God's mercy? 

- And have I been like the elder brother, unwilling to forgive others?

• If you have hurt someone, ask for forgiveness today.
• If someone has wronged you, take a step toward forgiving them.
• Spend time in prayer, thanking God for His mercy.

If you feel distant from God, remember that His arms are always open. Like the father in the parable, He is waiting to welcome you back, no matter how far you have wandered.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

• Be a sign of mercy to others—practice acts of kindness, even when it’s difficult.
• Encourage reconciliation in your family, church, and community.
• Participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and experience God’s healing love.

As we journey through Lent, let us walk as Pilgrims of Hope, trusting in God’s mercy and extending that mercy to others. The world needs more compassion, and it begins with us.

God’s love is greater than our failures. Whether we relate to the lost son or the bitter elder brother, God calls us all to experience His mercy and extend it to others.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your endless mercy. Help me to trust in Your forgiveness and to be merciful to others. May my heart always reflect Your love. Amen.

In South Africa, we know the power of forgiveness. Just as our nation has walked the road of reconciliation, we too are called to be instruments of God’s mercy.

"Forgiveness liberates the soul, it removes fear. That’s why it is such a powerful weapon." – Nelson Mandela