To See the Promise Within

Written by Amy Olszewski on Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

The story today of the prodigal son is often a hard one for the faithful to understand. We know, on the surface, why the father greets his wayward son with such fanfare and welcome, but it sure is a tough time for the diligent son who has worked and obeyed his father for so many years. We never know if he grows to share the joy his father has on his prodigal son’s return or if he finds it possible to enjoy that fatted calf dinner.

Oh, how we love things to be “fair” and so we hold on to our grudges — the grade not given, the promotion not received, the girl or boy who went to the movies with your best friend, but not with you. “But, I’m the worthy one”, we say. Our test of faith is to see the promise within. The father sees that his son has come home, repentant of his behavior. He sees a future with two sons, instead of one. He does not look back to the past but towards the future.

God’s love is gloriously abundant and forgiving. The Psalm today says, “He does not treat us as our sins deserve” but treats us as flawless and complete. How lucky we are to be given a fresh start every time we turn to the Lord with a true, open heart and ask for assistance. How fortunate we are to have a God that sees the promise we all have within us to be as He envisions!

Today, may you view the world through God’s eyes, accepting and seeing the promise in the good times and also in the challenges placed before you. Celebrate those challenges, turn your concerns over to the Lord and live in His love.

Question for Reflection & Suggestion for Prayer
What grudge have I carried that needs to be turned over to the Lord today?”
Find joy in another’s good fortune today.

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Amy Olszewski
Amy is a resident parishioner at St. Mary Student Parish.
Email: [email protected]