1439. The process of conversion and repentance was described by Jesus in the parable of the prodigal son, the center of which is the merciful father:37 The fascination of illusory freedom, the abandonment of the father’s house; the extreme misery in which the son finds himself after squandering his fortune; his deep humiliation at finding himself obliged to feed swine, and still worse, at wanting to feed on the husks the pigs ate; his reflection on all he has lost; his repentance and decision to declare himself guilty before his father; the journey back; the father’s generous welcome; the father’s joy – all these are characteristic of the process of conversion. the beautiful robe, the ring, and the festive banquet are symbols of that new life – pure worthy, and joyful – of anyone who returns to God and to the bosom of his family, which is the Church. Only the heart of Christ Who knows the depths of his Father’s love could reveal to us the abyss of his mercy in so simple and beautiful a way.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
201. Why does the Church have the power to forgive sins?
64. What kind of bond exists between created things?
292. What are the fruits of Holy Communion?
439. Why does the Decalogue constitute an organic unity?
237. From where do the sacramental signs come?
491. In what way is everyone called to live chastity?
515. What responsibility does the State have in regard to labor?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
How can wisdom protect us from evil, as revealed in Wisdom 7:28-29?
What does the Bible say about the wrath of God and how does it relate to the need for salvation?
What is the story of Abimelech and forgiveness in Judges 9:22-57?
What can we learn about the desire to always be with a loved one from Songs 3:1-5 and 6:1-3?
What is the importance of gratitude and recognition according to the book of Proverbs?
What can we learn about divine justice from the Lord’s vengeance mentioned in Abdias 1:15?
