In this Sunday’s Gospel we hear one of the most famous parables of Jesus: The Prodigal Son. It is a parable we have all heard many times and know very well. The basic meaning of the parable is usually quickly understood. God eagerly awaits the return of his children who have gone astray, and in fact, all of heaven rejoices.
This parable is prefaced by the first reading from Exodus. Israel has been freed from slavery and their enemies have been destroyed. They have witnessed first hand the power of God, and his steadfast love for them. Yet even with this experience, they are quick to turn from him – the one true God – to idols of gold. In our own lives we can be quick to turn away from God and worship idols, even when we have experienced the depth of God’s love for us.
Our idols, or distractions, take many forms. Money, fame, celebrities, politicians, work, and many other things can detract from and distort our relationship with God. Yet in all of this, God is generous and patient. He even heeds the intercession of Moses and subsequently has mercy on his people Israel.
The prodigal son is the same way. He knows the love of his father and the fulfillment found in his father’s love. Nevertheless he thinks he is better of on his own with his idols. He takes his share of his inheritance and goes off to squander his wealth in destitute living.
There are many times in live when we may seek to be satisfied with the things of the world. Ultimately, however, the goods of the world can never fully satisfy our desires. Keep in mind, the world does have many good things to offer: family, friendships, nourishment, and the beauty of nature. Yet even these do not fully satisfy our longings. It would seem mankind is nature’s monster – we are the only creatures that cannot find complete happiness in this lifetime, perhaps because this earth is not our final home.
Our desires are limitless and complete fulfillment is nowhere to be found. Nowhere, that is, except in God. St. Augustine conveys this sentiment beautifully: “you have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you” (Confessions 1.1). In God alone do we find the rest for which we are looking. In God alone do we find the end of all our desires. Sometimes it is only after searching for fulfilment in all the wrong places that we can come to this conclusion, as is the case with St. Augustine and the prodigal son.
With St. Augustine and the Prodigal Son, let us turn back to the Father, who is generous and patient, and who rejoices when we return to him. Let us approach him with humility and repentance saying, “I have sinned against you; have mercy on me” (Lk 15:21). Let us turn away from our idols and false gods which only lead us astray and leave us empty, and turn back to the banquet feast of heaven, where true happiness and rest in our God are found.
Kevin Ponte – St. Joseph Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta
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