Gospel Reflection - 4th Sunday of Lent, Year C
We have a popular parable from Jesus (and one of my favorites) in today’s Gospel. Many a homily, essay, book, etc. has focused on the Prodigal Son who requested his inheritance while his father was still alive, took his share, and spent it on frivolous vices. When the money ran out, he returned home in shame. I would like to turn our focus towards the older son in this reflection. He is angry over the banquet celebrating his brother’s return. He had always done the right thing and never disobeyed his father. The older brother sees this banquet as a reward for his brother’s selfish actions and refuses to join the celebration. His hardness of heart toward his brother causes as much pain to his father as his younger brother’s leaving did. “The father only is good. He loves both sons. He runs out to meet both. He wants both to sit at his table and participate in his joy.… [God’s] love does not force itself on the beloved.” (from Henri J.M. Nouwen’s book, The Return of the Prodigal Son) Th...