SUNDAY REFLECTIONS | Fourth Sunday of Lent

By Social Communications

Published on March 30, 2025

Luke 15:1–3, 11–32 — “The parable of the prodigal son.”

The Fourth Sunday of Lent is a beautiful celebration of God’s mercy, often called Laetare Sunday, a moment of joy amid our Lenten penance.

Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son to reveal the heart of the Father who eagerly waits for his lost children to return home.

The younger son demands his inheritance early and leaves, squandering it on selfish pleasures. He reaches the lowest point, alone and destitute, before deciding to return and ask for forgiveness.

The father welcomes him back with open arms, runs to meet him, and throws a feast to celebrate his return. This image of forgiveness and joy is a powerful sign of God’s unconditional love.

The older son struggles with jealousy and resentment, refusing to join the celebration. This challenges us to reflect on our own hearts—do we accept God’s mercy for others as readily as for ourselves?

This Gospel invites us to experience the joy of reconciliation and to trust in God’s mercy, no matter how far we have fallen.

Lent is a time to return home—to confess our sins, receive God’s forgiveness, and be restored to new life.

It also calls us to extend mercy to others and celebrate their conversion with joy.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us embrace the boundless love of the Father and live as children who are welcomed and forgiven.