Sunday, March 30th

Scripture

Jos 5:9-12
Ps 34:2-7
2 Cor 5:17-21
Lk 15:1-3, 11-32

Reflection

While still a long way off,
(God) caught sight…and was filled with compassion.
(God) ran to…embraced…and kissed… (Lk 15:20)

On January 15 I arrived for jury duty at criminal circuit court in Chicago. It was painfully ironic to see our flag still flying half-staff in honor of the most just President I have known, even as the day’s news detailed the January 6 criminal conspiracy case against the convicted-felon President-elect, who would not face further trial or sentencing.

Inside I circled serpentine in the security line with folks in smart business suits and folks in disheveled jeans-wear. I met the eyes of many who looked much more nervous than I. Some of these folks must have been agonizing about whether they’d hear a verdict of innocent or guilty, knowing that their future hinged on that judgment. I knew that the suits had a better chance than the jeans. It staggered me to realize how much I can mean in the life of another person.

At the end of the day, I’m glad that the God of the Universe is the One who runs to us while we’re still a long way off. Today’s ingenious parable from Jesus is not only a window into the heart of our compassionate, reconciling God, but also a mirror that reflects both our human weaknesses and our stunning abilities to seek and grant forgiveness. In truth, we are new creations in Christ, entrusted with God’s own ministry of reconciliation. So let’s not wallow with the pigs for too long.

Prayer

“May we become the compassion of God for the world!
May we become—mind, heart, and soul—God’s compassion for the
world.”
(Perhaps pray these words with the song by Kathy Sherman, CSJ)

Personal Challenge

Who do I need to forgive? From whom do I need to seek forgiveness?

Sister Mary Jo Curtsinger
Chicago, IL