All three of today’s readings are about forgiveness. Fr Jim tells his own version of the “Prodigal Son” story about accidentally ruining his father’s favorite fork, and how much joy he felt in hearing his father say “I forgive you.” Who, he wonders, do we know who would love to hear those words from us?
The LORD relented in the punishment he had threatened to inflict on his people.
EX 32:7-11, 13-14
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Of these I am the foremost. But for that reason I was mercifully treated,
1 TM 1:12-17
“There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.”
LK 15:1-32