Dear conqueror in Christ:
I wish to urge you to make every effort to conquer impulsiveness which is the tendency to act rashly without thinking about the consequences. According to Dr Martin Luther King, “Nothing pains some people more than having to think.” Too many people act so impulsively that they don’t even acknowledge God in their decisions. This tendency is obvious in the story of the prodigal son. All was going well for this young man when he took the impulsive decision to use his share of his father’s heritage to go on a foolish adventure. In a foreign country, he squandered all his assets in wild living. When he became overcome by hunger, “he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs.” (Luke 15:15). Let’s consider how he managed to pull himself out of this deep hole.
The prodigal son first resolved to make the best of his second chance by engaging in thinking and reflecting on his condition. Jesus underscores that when he came to his senses, he said: “I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.” (Luke 15:17-18). Secondly this young man was able to regain his father’s love. For “Upon returning, his father was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20). After dressing him up with the best robe, putting a ring in his finger and shoes on his feet, the father celebrated his return with a big feast. Because of his unfailing love, God stands ready to restore you to abundant life. Come then to yourself and take advantage of this second chance.
Excelsior
Bishop Leon