Homily for Saturday of the 2nd Week of Lent

Forgiveness and reconciliation are central to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Being a true disciple of Jesus means dedicating ourselves to achieving unity of spirit, even in the face of differences and disagreements.

The work of reconciliation is not confined to a specific time or place or dependent on any particular circumstances. It is offered to all individuals and is not limited to specific groups.

Forgiveness requires confronting our responsibility for harming others, just as the Prodigal Son did. This often entails setting aside our agendas, desires, and need for control. At times, it may necessitate putting aside our own pain to focus on the goal of reconciliation and actively work towards it. It isn’t an easy journey, but it is what the Gospel calls us to pursue. We are urged to prioritize reconciliation and healing instead of seeking vengeance and punishment, much like the father in today’s Gospel reading who navigates between his two sons.

Let us all commit ourselves to reconciliation: forgiving without wanting revenge, asking forgiveness to heal those we have harmed, and restoring hope and dignity to those who have suffered because of our actions.