Good News Inspiration for Daily Life
Bulletin Insert for March 27, 2022.
Description: For the 4th Sunday of Lent, from Luke 15:1-3,11-32 we can learn more about what happens during every Mass when we pray, “Lord, I am not worthy… but say the Word and my soul shall be healed.” Jesus shows us in this Gospel reading that we are all worthy — not because of what we do, rather because of what Jesus did do: He died on the cross to take our sins into death so that we can rise up with him in the perpetual Easter experience of unity with God. Notice that in the parable of the Prodigal Son, it’s not what the son did that made his return home acceptable. It’s not his repentance that made him worthy of receiving his father’s love. It’s what the father did. He loved his child. Unconditionally. He loved him even while he was far away, even while he was straying in a sinful lifestyle.
For discussion groups such as RCIA and Small Christian Communities (SCC), this handout asks:
- In what ways do you feel like a prodigal child? Do you feel separated from God to any degree? What sins do you need to confess so that you can turn around and head back home? Your Father is waiting with open arms!
- Describe a Prodigal Son type of experience. Are you waiting for a lost child or friend to return to the Church or to your love?
- In what way have you been the child running away from God? What made you decide to return home? How did God receive you back? What convinced you that his love is unconditional and always available?
Ideas for use: Bulletin insert for the 4th Sunday of Lent, adult education, Lenten faith sharing groups, RCIA class, etc.
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