Today's scripture and homily was on The Prodigal Son. We are all familiar with the story. And we are all familiar with the "good" brother, who had stayed home and remained faithful to his father. He was jealous and upset when his brother, the prodigal son, returned and that was celebrated. Of course, the "good" brother just didn't realize his worth to his father, his rewards that were always there for him. But of interest, Father said that we all suffer from the Prodigal Son Brother syndrome. And, I know I sure can. I need to realize that I am not the neglected, but the blessed, in the same way as the brother in the scripture.
I really think my thoughts this Lenten season have been focused on improvement, understanding, graciousness and acceptance. I need to focus more intently on those and remember them daily. As a couple of administrators in my building say, everyone brings something to the table; everyone has a gift to share. So instead of complaining and griping or gossiping or getting caught up in that type of conversation, I need to focus on what each persons' gifts, and give thanks for those gifts. I know I am guilty at times of only seeing the bad, only griping about something. I need to be better at acceptance and graciousness.
The cardinal sins are wrath, greed, sloth, pride, lust, envy and glutton, and oh, they are so easy to commit! I need not be jealous or envious, but truly glad for others' accomplishments and gains. I do not need to be prideful, or greedy, or any of these things. I hope that I can truly live to be the best Elsie-Helen I can be, knowing that I am human, with my human faults.
Thanks for letting me ramble today. I think I am on a personal journey of some sort, and just need my road map to become clear.
4 Comments:
We had the VERY SAME SERMON in our church today, too!!! I also think we are all on the same road map! Always remember that NONE of us are perfect and that everyone needs to be more accepting and gracious of others. Your post offered much food for thought.
Same at my church....just trying to love everyone;)
It was the weekend for the Prodigal Son, my mom said that they had the same as well! Good lessons!
Sounds like a good service at church. Sometimes it does feel like they are directly talking to you huh? Nice!
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