The merciful Father and the return of the Prodigal.

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THE PRODIGAL AND THE ABC OF MERCY.

"Coming to his senses he [the Prodigal] thought, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger." (Luke 15: 17).

Sunday 11th September of the 24th week of the Ordinary Time.

The Scriptures this Sunday is so rich in spiritual nourishment. The first Reading from Exodus 32 can be summarized thus: The Lord relented in the punishment He planned for His people.  I see myself here as Moses the sinner and intercessor.

In the 2nd Reading from 1 Timothy, Paul exclaimed how mercifully Jesus treated him. First, all his sins were wiped out. Then Jesus appointed Paul as a top Apostle. I am here Paul the Apostle. With absolutely no merit but pure grace, Jesus lifted me up from grave sins and gave me a ministry.

In the Responsorial Psalm 51, I am David. Forgiven of heinous crimes, I prayed that God will not take away His Holy and friendly Spirit from me.

But it is in the Gospel that I see God’s face of mercy in the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

Sin leads sooner or later to brokenness. Brokenness softens the heart to receive the mercy waiting for the sinner. Without the hunger and misery of the Prodigal, he would never have come to the point where he said:

"I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.  I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers." (Luke 15: 18 - 19).

The Scriptures reveal to us this Sunday:
Jesus Christ the Face of mercy of God the Father. How do we apply this truth to our needs?

Reconciliation! No Reconciliation, No personal experience of Mercy!
The ABC of Mercy:
Ask for Mercy.
Be Merciful.
Completely trust Jesus for Mercy.

Daily Bible Verse @ SeekFirstcommunity.com