It is 07th March 2015. The readings are from Mic.7:14-15, 18-20 and the Gospel from Lk.15:1-3,11-32. The first reading speaks about the mercy and forgiveness of God. God is so merciful and ever forgiving our sins. “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives our sins? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.” (Mic.7:18). God is delighted indeed to be merciful and forgiving when we are willing to repent. Prophet Micah tells us that God expects the same qualities such as just, merciful and humble, which we enjoy in him to be shared with others. The Responsorial Psalm prays, “The Lord is compassion and love.”(Ps.102:8). The Gospel presents the merciful Father through the story of prodigal son. God is watching and waiting for us to return to Him no matter how much mess we have made so far. God is willing to clothe us with the new garments of dignity and grace. God offers opportunities for us to respond His merciful love. We too have many “younger brothers” in our families and communities yet to be embraced by us, unlike the older brother in the Gospel. Father’s response is so surprising while the older brother’s reaction is shocking. God’s response is overwhelming many times. There is an older brother in every one of us who finds it hard to accept those sinful brothers and sisters amidst us. Let us not resent when we witness God is forgiving and merciful to those fallen brothers and sisters. Lent is the time to show our mercy and forgiveness to someone who has abused our benevolence. May God bless you and have a blessed day.