Homily.
Today is the Sunday of the Prodigal Son. By referring to the Gospel in this way we emphasize the wastefulness of the younger son.
In Arabic, today’s Gospel is known as: “Injeel ibnil-shatir.” The word “shatir” in classical Arabic means “cunning” and the verb “shaatara” means “to split or divide.” Therefore, in both English and Arabic the focus is on the son who was wasteful, cunning, and divided the family wealth. However, the true message of the Gospel is not about wastefulness of family wealth.
This section can be renamed the Gospel of the Merciful Father, the Gospel of the Repentant younger son, or the Gospel of the Ungrateful Elder Son. These aspects of waste, ingratitude, repentance, and mercy are perfect themes for our Lenten preparations.
Today’s Gospel begins at Luke 15:11. But, in order to better understand its rich message, we need to go back to the beginning of chapter 15 where the religious authorities are once again challenging Jesus. In verses one and two of that chapter we read that: “the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear Jesus. [2] And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, ‘This man receives sinners and eats with them.’ ” (Luke 15:1-2).
Jesus does not respond by arguing with them, but tells them three stories. The first is about a man who had a hundred sheep. When he lost one of them, he left the 99 to search for the lost one. When he found it he tells his friends and neighbors: “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost” (Luke 15:6). Jesus then adds: “Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:7).
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