It’s Laetare Sunday or Rejoice Sunday. What do we have to rejoice about. Maybe a gift received, or a favor done, or a compliment paid. These are all nice and for awhile will bring a sense of happiness. But if you want to rejoice in receiving something, it needs to be more.
Maybe today’s Gospel shows us that when the younger son left home, spent his inheritance, and now comes back seeking help. The Father (God) holds no grudges, no “I told you so,”, just a party and a great welcome back. Now that’s something to rejoice about. Let us offer that same forgiveness without resentment or expected repayment. But offer it out of love.