Saturday of the Second Week of Lent
Today we are reminded of the power of God’s mercy. The first reading asks “Who is there like you, the God who removes guilt…” and the psalm assures us that God is able “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us.” Finally, the Gospel proclaims the marvelous parable of the prodigal son, whose father despite the terrible sins done against him, “…ran to the son, embraced him and kissed him.”
In what ways do we need to bring ourselves to the mercy of God? Have we made a Lenten Confession? It’s normal to be nervous about confessing our sins, yet it is extremely liberating when we do it. As Pope Francis told us in his first Angelus and other times, “The Lord never tires of forgiving,” but rather, “It is we who tire of asking forgiveness.” Let us not be too exhausted or afraid but let God come and meet us in our weakness and pitifulness, pouring his grace on us. As the psalmist assures us, “He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion.”