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“But the father of the prodigal son is not concerned about himself. His long-suffering life has emptied him of his desires to keep in control of things. His children are his only concern, to them he wants to give himself completely, and for them he wants to pour out all of himself. Can I give without wanting anything in return, love without putting any conditions on my love? Considering my immense need for human recognition and affection, I realize that it will be a lifelong struggle. But I am also convinced that each time I step over this need and act free of my concern for return, I can trust that my life can truly bear the fruits of God’s Spirit.”

-- Henri J. M. Nouwen

I read this book when I was in junior year. This book is written by a Catholic priest upon his reflections and contemplations after seeing a reproduction of Rembrant’s The Return of the Prodigal Son, which took him on a long spiritual adventure. Although the Bible story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) is known by many, Rembrant’s painting of the father gently embracing the prodigal son had brought Nouwen a very profound and personal meditation on his spiritual relationship with God. The writer shares the different psychological states of each role in the painting, and identifies himself being each role. Many times, the growth in faith will only come in agony and many tears.

No matter you are a Catholic Christian or a Protestant Christian, this is a good book to ponder on and reflect the inner most of yourself.

Even if you are an irreligious person, this is also an interesting book to perceive the different psychological states of the artist when he drew this painting at another level.