The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32) is one of the most profound depictions of God’s mercy. It speaks of rebellion, repentance, and the overwhelming love of a father who never stops waiting for his lost child to return. This parable is not just about one wayward son- it is about all of us.

The younger son, impatient and restless, demands his inheritance and leaves, squandering everything in reckless living. Eventually, he finds himself in misery, longing for the food given to pigs. In this broken state, he realizes the depth of his mistakes and resolves to return home, hoping only to be treated as a servant. This moment of self-awareness is key- he does not try to justify his actions but acknowledges his failure and turns back.

Today’s Gospel (Luke 13:1-9) presents a sobering message from Jesus: “If you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!” He addresses people who believed that tragic deaths were punishments for grave sin, challenging this notion and redirecting the focus inward. Instead of speculating about the guilt of others, Jesus urges self-examination and conversion. His words remind us that suffering is not necessarily a sign of divine punishment but that every moment of life is an opportunity for repentance.

On the mountain of the Transfiguration, Jesus reveals His glory to Peter, James, and John. As His face shines and His clothing becomes dazzling white, Moses and Elijah appear beside Him, speaking of His impending suffering in Jerusalem. Then, from the cloud, the voice of the Father declares: “This is my chosen Son; listen to Him.” (Luke 9:35). These words, spoken in majesty, hold deep significance, not just for the apostles but for each of us as we journey through Lent.

The First Sunday of Lent brings us to a defining moment in Jesus’ life- the temptation in the desert (Luke 4:1-13). Led by the Spirit, Jesus fasts for forty days and is then confronted by the devil, who tempts Him with comfort, power, and self-glory. Each time, Jesus responds with the Word of God, rejecting the false promises before Him. This passage offers us a profound lesson on the nature of temptation, the power of God’s Word, and the strength that comes from total dependence on the Father.

Lent is not merely a season of giving things up; it is an invitation to transformation. It is a sacred journey that mirrors Christ’s 40 days in the desert, calling us to deeper conversion through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. More than a time of restriction, Lent is a time of renewal- a chance to reorient our hearts toward God, stripping away distractions so that we may encounter Him more fully.