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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Joshua 5:9-12 Psalm 34 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Luke 15:1-3. 11-32
Today's readings speak about new beginnings. In the historical book of Joshua we read that the people of Israel have just entered the Promised Land. No longer will they have to rely on the manna God had provided them with in the desert to eat. From now on they are to eat the produce of the fruitful land of Canaan to which God has led them.
In the Gospel parable of the Prodigal Son everyone has a new beginning. The wayward son who was "lost and found" repents, is forgiven and begins a new life. The older resentful son is asked to accept the repentant son as his brother and is made to realise that this brother's repentance is a reason to rejoice. And of course the return of his son is also a new beginning for the father who, like God, is infinitely forgiving and rejoices at the return of even the most wayward of his children.
Paul appeals to us "Be reconciled to God". Make a new beginning with God and continue God's work of reconciliation begun in Jesus Christ. This means that not only are we called to experience God's forgiveness but also to forgive one another. Is there anyone who needs my forgiveness this Lent? Is there a relationship that has been "lost"? If I can bring myself to forgive, what rejoicing and a wonderful new beginning there will be for both of us!