The lost and found story of the prodigal son will be nothing unusual for us if it becomes a mere parable entertainment. Then we give up the effort to detach ourselves from occasions that lead us to degrade ourselves and feel sorry later. The result remains - we find ourselves not at peace.

The question it must evoke in us, therefore, is - are we prepared to remain in the pig sty or in the rigid adherence to please others? Or are we ready to pass through the passage of humiliation? We need a passage of purgation through humiliation and only then will we find ourselves dignified by God, our Father. Our experience of having gone down to the abyss of shame must not be the focus, for it cannot surpass the loving embrace of a merciful Father. Our focus is conversion through the compassion of God.

Perhaps, God's invitation to some is to meditate on the actions of the younger son, who rebelled. Yet, once he came to his senses, he returned to his father's house and begged forgiveness. Or maybe the invitation is to reflect on the action of the elder son, who is mightier yet jealous with the grand celebration given by the father to the returning rebel. This parable highlights the importance of recognizing our own vulnerabilities, sins, failings, and limitations and the profound joy of reconciliation and redemption. Conversion is the name of the message. We gain a new image in God through Christ's compassion.