The Return of the Prodigal Son

Henri Nouwen's The Return of the Prodigal Son explores themes of homecoming and reconciliation through a personal meditation on a famous painting.

A chance encounter with a reproduction of Rembrandt's painting sparked Henri Nouwen's profound spiritual journey. In his acclaimed work, The Return of the Prodigal Son, Nouwen shares a deeply personal meditation that guides readers to discover the sacred space within where God resides. This exploration invites us to reflect on the parable's meaning in our lives, encouraging a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships with others.

The accompanying Lent course, adapted from the book, is structured into five engaging sessions. Each session delves into different aspects of the parable, exploring the younger son's departure and return, the father's act of restoring sonship, the elder son's feelings of resentment, and the father's unwavering compassion. Through these themes, readers are encouraged to confront their own experiences of loneliness, dejection, jealousy, or anger, ultimately leading to reflections on homecoming, affirmation, and reconciliation.

Each session includes audio extracts from The Return of the Prodigal Son, alongside insights into Henri Nouwen's life. The course provides thoughtful suggestions for personal reflection and includes notes for group leaders, facilitating meaningful discussions. This resource serves as a guide for those seeking to engage deeply with the parable and its relevance to contemporary life, fostering a sense of community and shared exploration.