Homily/Food for today

Saturday, 7 March 2026
Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

1. Introduction

My dear friend, today’s Gospel is one of the most moving stories ever told: the parable of the Prodigal Son. It is not just about a rebellious son. It is about a merciful father and two sons who both struggle to understand love.

Lent is a journey back home. Some of us have wandered far like the younger son. Others stayed close but carry resentment like the older son. Yet the Father waits for both.

2. Life Story

A young boy once prayed loudly in church:

“Lord, please make me a better boy.”

After a moment he prayed again:

“Lord, please make my sister better too.”

Then he added,
“Actually Lord… maybe it is easier if you just make everyone else better.”

Sometimes we pray like that. We want everyone else to change, but Lent invites us to change first.

3. The Word (Understanding the Scripture)

In Luke 15:11–32, Jesus tells the story of a father with two sons.

The younger son demands his inheritance early. In that culture it was like saying, “Father, I wish you were already dead.” He leaves home, wastes everything, and ends up feeding pigs—an unclean animal for Jews.

When he hits rock bottom, he decides to return home as a servant.

But something extraordinary happens:
The father runs to him.

In ancient culture, a respected man did not run. Yet the father runs, embraces him, forgives him, and throws a feast.

The older son, however, is angry. He stayed faithful but cannot celebrate his brother’s return.

Jesus is teaching that God’s mercy is bigger than our calculations of fairness.

4. Three Practical Lessons for Today

1. It is never too late to return to God.
No matter how far someone has gone, the road back to God is always open.

2. Do not allow resentment to poison your heart.
The older son obeyed but lacked compassion. Faith without mercy becomes bitterness.

3. Celebrate the restoration of others.
When someone changes their life for the better, rejoice instead of judging their past.

5. Inspirational Quote

“God does not wait for perfect people; He runs toward those who simply decide to come home.”

6. Conclusion

My friend, today God is not standing with folded arms. He is watching the road, waiting for His children to return.

Whether you feel like the wandering son or the resentful brother, the invitation is the same:
Come closer to the Father’s heart.

His mercy is greater than our mistakes.

7. Prayer

Let us pray.

Loving Father,
Thank You for your endless mercy.
When we wander far from You, give us the courage to return.
Remove resentment and pride from our hearts.
Teach us to forgive as You forgive and to rejoice when others are restored.
May our lives reflect Your compassion and love today.

Amen. 🙏