God of compassion,

You are the Father who runs to meet me, 
Who holds me with hands both strong and tender. 
Give me a heart like yours.

Teach me to love without fear, 
To forgive without hesitation, 
To welcome without judgment.

When I feel empty, fill me with your grace. 
When I feel bitter, soften me with your mercy. 
When I feel alone, remind me that you are always near.

Let me be a reflection of your love— 
A shelter for the weary, 
A light for the lost, 
A home for the prodigal.

Amen.

Reflection: Becoming the Father

Lord, I have stood in the shoes of the younger son—lost, ashamed, and longing for home. 
I have also worn the cloak of the elder son—resentful, rigid, and blind to grace. 
But now, you call me to something deeper, something harder: 
To become the father.

To open my arms without condition. 
To forgive without demand. 
To love without needing to be loved in return.
This is not easy. 

It asks me to let go of my wounds, my pride, my need to be right. 
It asks me to be a safe place for others, even when I feel unsafe myself. 
It asks me to rejoice in the return of those who have hurt me, 
To celebrate grace when justice feels more satisfying.

But this is your way, Lord. 
This is the path of mercy. 
This is the heart of the Gospel.