Desperation often fuels poor decisions. Who hasn't spoken with someone whose family's security is threatened by the loss of job or a serious illness? Hourly workers are the most threatened since in our system if they can't get to work for any reason, they do not have to be paid. After Hurricane Sandy, thousands of hourly workers lost millions of dollars because it took them twice as long to get to work, and they were docked for the missed hours.
The young man in today's Gospel who demands his father give him his share of his inheritance soon finds himself in a desperate situation. Having frittered away his inheritance, he is so hungry he is willing to eat the slop being served to pigs. Overwhelmed, and in order to save himself, he decides to go home and be one of his father's slaves. At least, he thinks, he will eat, but his father has other ideas. (Lk 15:20)
Seeing his son coming "while he was still a long way off," the father runs out to meet, embrace and kiss his son. So relieved that his son has returned, the father doesn't even consider a punishment, but throws a party because his son "who was dead but has come back to life."
The lesson is powerful. Any effort we make to turn out lives towards God, even when we are desperate, will be rewarded. God wants us to live, to turn away from sin and enjoy life in the community of faith.
Today, imagine God seeing you a long way off.
What might push you towards desperation in your daily life?
Today, imagine God seeing you a long way off.
What might push you towards desperation in your daily life?
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