# Our Father in Faith – Trust and the Prodigal Son
*2018-03-03*

> Bill Young reflects on the second Saturday of Lent, exploring the parable of the Prodigal Son and Abraham as our “father in faith,” and offers prayers for deeper trust in God’s promises.

## The Prodigal Son and Reconciliation

We began with the familiar story of the Prodigal Son: a young man squanders his inheritance, returns home humbled, and is welcomed with a joyous celebration. The Gospel reminds us that the father’s love is prodigal—lavish, unconditional, and eager to restore the lost child. This image of reconciliation captures how God overcomes the brokenness caused by sin, restoring the relationship we were created for.

## A Prayer for Trust in Dark Times

In the spirit of the Second Saturday of Lent, we prayed:

“Father, wherever you send me, I will go. I will not rely on myself but on you, Lord, trusting that even when the path seems dark, you will not disappoint me. Jesus, I trust in you.”

This prayer sets the tone for our “Do‑It‑Yourself” retreat, preparing our hearts for consecration to Divine Mercy.

## Abraham: Our Father in Faith

The day’s theme turns to Abraham, the patriarch whose life exemplifies faith. God called Abraham to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1‑2) and promised countless descendants (Genesis 15). Even when Abraham and Sarah were childless, God showed him the stars and promised that his offspring would be as numerous (Genesis 15). Later, Isaac was born, and God reaffirmed the covenant (Genesis 17). The ultimate test came when God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22). Abraham’s willingness to obey, trusting that God could even raise the dead, is highlighted in Hebrews 11:17‑19 and Romans 4:18. Abraham’s faith stands in stark contrast to Eve’s doubt, showing us that true faith means believing God’s promises even when they seem impossible.

## Closing Prayer

“Come, Holy Spirit, fire our mercy. Grant us such trust in God’s word that we may hope against hope. Amen.”

*Abraham’s unwavering faith invites us to trust God’s promises, even in the darkest moments.*