A Concord Pastor Comments: Word for the Weekend

Return on the Prodigal Son by Rembrandt

"Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him;
put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet!"

Time to open the scriptures for the readings for the coming weekend, the Fourth Sunday of Lent or Laetare Sunday. The Latin name for this Sunday, "Laetare" comes from the Entrance Song for this day found in the Missal, which word translates, "Rejoice!" Lent is half-over and the day for celebrating the Resurrection is that much closer!

We are currently in Year C of the Lectionary but parishes preparing for baptisms at the Easter Vigil have the option of using the readings for Year A for last week, this week and next week. This is because the Year A readings are especially suited to the Rites of Christian Initiation.

So, parishes using Year C readings will find the texts and commentary here while parishes using Year A readings will find their texts and commentary here.

Bringing children to worship? Our site with hints and helps for preparing children to hear the Word offers only the Year C readings and commentary and can be found here.

The first reading finds the Israelites rejoicing that their reliance on manna has come to an end and more normal food is their fare once again. The second lesson focuses our attention on the "new creation" that is ours in the reconciliation God has achieved in Jesus and which work has been entrusted to us.

The gospel is the familiar story of the two sons who had a prodigal father. Don't let familiarity keep you from reviewing this text in preparation for hearing it proclaimed on Sunday.