Of course, you already knew that, but it’s possible your children do not – especially the youngest ones who aren’t really good at abstract thought yet.  As you’re reading or listening to the parable of the Prodigal Son in the upcoming lesson, try hearing it once at face value (“Once upon a time, there was a father and his two sons …”), but then be sure your kids get a sense of the deeper meanings of this story.

You’ll also hear this Gospel read at Masses this weekend, and priests everywhere will likely give homilies about the nature of our sin and the greatness of our Heavenly Father’s forgiveness.  It would be great reinforcement for this lesson (or the lesson would be great reinforcement for the Mass readings) to do it at the appointed time.

In preparation for teaching, take some time this week to meditate on the parable and take notes about your insights.

• How is the father in the story like God?
• How are you, as a parent, like the father in the story?
• Consider the difference between the two sons.  Both have glaring flaws; what are they?  Both have things they’ve done right; what are they?
• With which son do you most identify?
• Think of specific times when you’ve been particularly grateful for the Father’s mercy.