We all experience hurts and injuries; it is part of the legacy of the Disobedience in Eden, when our first parents chose to break away from God. The family split, brother killed brother, pain, toil and division reigned. The pain is not only physical, but pain in the heart and feelings as disrespect, abuse, power turn one against the other.
Today we hear the Parable of the Prodigal Son, (Lk 15: 11-37) which appeared in our liturgy last Saturday. We see the Father's untiring and unconditional love and rejoice in it, as well we should on Laetare Sunday (Rejoice Sunday).
Turning to the youngest son, the prodigal, we see the archetype of the family member who wants to sever all ties with home and relatives and "go it alone". In some instances it might be the hurt one has experienced from the people who should love and care, but don't, or who take advantage of another's goodness to the point of crushing him or her. The pain is so great that escaping seems to be the only solution. In today's world, we can block all social media contacts and disappear to avoid the pain. What does it take when one "comes to one's senses" and realizes that happiness was not found outside and forgiveness and reconciliation must be sought? A hard road, a tough road. How do we help such a soul?
We know that peace will return when the time comes, but does the "prodigal" know? Prayer, patience, presence, accompaniment, "being there", gently nudging, encouraging, supporting these will help the one who has chosen to stray, to experience the love and welcome of the Father.
Bro Rene
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