Lectio Divina: 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time

“God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” — 2 Cor 5:19

REFLECTION

There’s a lot to unpack from today’s Gospel, but there’s also an overarching message: rejoicing over what is found. Whether it’s the lost sheep, a lost coin, or a wayward son, there is much to celebrate and to rejoice about. Reconciliation is our message. It’s one we’re called to proclaim from the mountaintops, the city square, and the pulpits.

The God of the universe — the maker of the stars and galaxies — made everything good. He is particularly fond of humanity. He loves you and cherishes you. He would rather die than risk spending eternity without you. His whole mission is about entering a deep relationship with you. A relationship of love, joy, and mercy.

No matter how long it’s been, or how far you’ve strayed, come back home. God is ready to welcome you back. Like the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, He is already eager for us to come home. He waits for even the smallest of invitations to enter into our lives and to restore us. Heaven rejoices when we come back home. I can imagine it throws an absolute party when we bring others with us.

QUESTIONS

How can I proclaim the message of reconciliation to those I encounter in my daily life?
Do I sometimes feel like the prodigal son? Or am I the older brother?
When is the last time I went to Confession?
Do I understand that sin is not just breaking a rule, but breaking a heart?
Do I trust that the Lord is willing to leave the 99 for the one?