In this homily, Fr. Stephen Osburn reflects on the Parable of the Prodigal Son as the Church prepares for Lent. Rather than focusing on sin alone, the homily centers on the Father and what repentance truly means in the Orthodox Christian life. Repentance is not fear or shame, but a return to God who is already waiting.

The prodigal’s journey shows us that many of us only come to our senses after we have exhausted ourselves chasing life apart from God. Yet when we return, we are not met with punishment or embarrassment, but with mercy, restoration, and joy. God does not hold our failures over our heads. He brings us back to life.

This message reminds us that repentance is resurrection. It is the doorway back into communion with God. As Lent approaches, the invitation is simple and hopeful. Return, and discover that God has never stoppe ...