The main idea in this Sunday's Gospel, the parable of the prodigal son, is of family - a generous and forgiving father, a willful son, a jealous brother. Their relationships and conflicts could be recognizable to almost anyone, and these characters would not be out of place today on the couch with "Dr. Phil". But there is also another important thread that ties all the characters together: the idea of home. A place of departure and returning. A place of love and support, of safety and security. Ultimately, a place of welcome.
As we consider this familiar story once again, let us consider, too, the notion of home and homecoming. Some of those we know might be estranged from the church. Lent is a good opportunity to try to heal whatever may be dividing us as members of the Christian family.
With this parable on our minds, now is a good time to work on opening our arms and opening our hearts, to remind ourselves that there really is "no place like home."
