The Prodigal Son

Jesus tells the familiar parable of the Prodigal Son, a story not just about forgiveness but about deep, personal transformation.

The younger son’s journey begins with a misguided desire for independence. He demands his inheritance, leaves home, and squanders everything. When he finds himself destitute and starving, he finally turns toward home, rehearsing an apology to his father. But before he can even speak, his father runs to him, embraces him, and welcomes him home with a feast.

This story reminds us that transformation often begins at the point of brokenness. The son’s turning point is not in his return speech but in his willingness to come home at all and to admit his need and vulnerability. The father’s extravagant welcome reflects God’s grace, always reaching toward us even before we are fully ready to change.

Lent invites us to take this same journey of transformation. We may not find ourselves in a distant land, but we all experience moments of feeling lost or disconnected from God. Like the prodigal son, we are called to return; not because we have perfected ourselves, but because God’s mercy is already running to meet us.

The older son’s response is also part of the story of transformation. He struggles to accept his brother’s return and the father’s forgiveness. Lent challenges us to examine our own hearts; are we ready to embrace the transforming power of grace for others as well as ourselves?

As we walk through this Lenten season, may we have the courage to return, the humility to receive grace, and the openness to be transformed by God’s boundless love.

Kevin+