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A review by declanellis
The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming by Henri J.M. Nouwen
5.0
"I am the prodigal son every time I search for unconditional love where it cannot be found."
Incredible... one of the deepest and most convicting books I've read aside from the bible itself. Simultaneously an exegesis of the parable of the prodigal son, an analysis of Rembrandt's painting and a personal reflection, this little book somehow transcends the sum of its parts. I borrowed it from the library but I'll definitely buy my own copy so I can read it again and again because some of the lessons this book teaches can't be heard enough times. It has convicted me of my sin, my self-righteousness and challenged me to live in the free embrace of the father. More than that, it is a challenge to become the father, living a radically selfless life that loves and welcomes others. As Nouwen writes: "I now see that the hands that forgive, console, heal, and offer a festive meal must become my own."
Highly recommended*
_________
*I will note there are a few points in the book that I'm not quite sure of (he says at one point "God needs us" which definitely isn't true, though it becomes clear he's just using it for literary flair if you read it in context of the whole book) so as of all things don't read it uncritically. However, this book is well worth reading.
Incredible... one of the deepest and most convicting books I've read aside from the bible itself. Simultaneously an exegesis of the parable of the prodigal son, an analysis of Rembrandt's painting and a personal reflection, this little book somehow transcends the sum of its parts. I borrowed it from the library but I'll definitely buy my own copy so I can read it again and again because some of the lessons this book teaches can't be heard enough times. It has convicted me of my sin, my self-righteousness and challenged me to live in the free embrace of the father. More than that, it is a challenge to become the father, living a radically selfless life that loves and welcomes others. As Nouwen writes: "I now see that the hands that forgive, console, heal, and offer a festive meal must become my own."
Highly recommended*
_________
*I will note there are a few points in the book that I'm not quite sure of (he says at one point "God needs us" which definitely isn't true, though it becomes clear he's just using it for literary flair if you read it in context of the whole book) so as of all things don't read it uncritically. However, this book is well worth reading.