“The Return of the Prodigal Son - a Story of Homecoming” by Henri Nouwen, 2014.
- John Scoble
- Aug 12, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 26
This book is part story and part reflection. Nouwen relates how his encounter with a poster copy of Rembrandt’s painting “Return of the Prodigal Son” set him on a life changing journey. He became fascinated with the painting, eventually travelling to the Hermitage in St Petersburg to view the original. He sat before the painting initially for two days, examining the many intricacies of the subjects and how Rembrandt captured their roles in the parable’s drama and reflected their thoughts and moods.
Nouwen then reflects upon his own life and how he progressively identified his personal journey with the principal characters of the prodigal son, the indignant older brother and the forgiving and loving father. The reader is encouraged through Nouwen’s writing to similarly identify with the characters and to reflect on the spiritual implications for themselves.
Henri Nouwen subsequently decided to leave his University teaching career (Notre Dame, Yale and Harvard) to work with the severely disabled in the L’Arche community in Ontario, Canada, a move which he found challenging and rewarding. He spent the last 10 years of his life there.
I personally found this a thoroughly enjoyable and insightful piece of writing. It has given me a much richer understanding of this well-known parable. Available on loan from Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, Brisbane or for purchase from Booktopia for about US$20 (plus postage).
FAQs on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
Why does Henri Nouwen’s reflection on the Prodigal Son still matter today?
Because we are all, in one way or another, restless wanderers. Nouwen’s meditation on Rembrandt’s famous painting shows that the parable is not just about a wayward child but about every human heart longing for home. Modern psychology confirms the hunger for belonging: a Harvard study (2021) found that 36% of Americans report “serious loneliness.” Nouwen’s work reminds us that homecoming is not just a social need but a spiritual one – a return to God’s embrace.
What is the spiritual message behind Rembrandt’s painting of the Prodigal Son?
Rembrandt captures three figures: the father, the younger son, and the elder son. Nouwen saw himself in each – the broken wanderer, the resentful rule-keeper, and the compassionate parent. The painting conveys that true spirituality is not about status or achievement but about learning to receive and then extend mercy. It whispers a truth many of us resist: we are most fully alive not when we are “right” but when we are reconciled.
How does the Prodigal Son story speak to those experiencing guilt or shame?
The parable offers a radical alternative to cycles of self-blame. The son rehearses his apology, expecting rejection, but the father interrupts with embrace, robe, and feast. Shame says, “I am not worthy.” Grace replies, “You are still mine.” Studies in pastoral care show that narratives of forgiveness significantly reduce spiritual despair and even improve wellbeing (Journal of Psychology & Theology, 2020). The story is not sentimental – it is liberation in narrative form.
What role does the elder brother play in Nouwen’s interpretation?
The elder son represents the part of us that clings to resentment and entitlement. Many churchgoers quietly identify more with him than with the younger sibling. Nouwen confessed he often caught himself sulking in elder-brother energy – keeping score, demanding fairness, forgetting joy. His insight is that both sons are invited to the feast. The harder challenge may be to unclench the fists of comparison and accept that God’s abundance is not diminished by another’s welcome.
How can we practice the “homecoming” Nouwen describes in daily life?
Homecoming is less about geography and more about posture. It happens in small acts of surrender – pausing in prayer, choosing forgiveness, or sitting in silence long enough to remember we are beloved. Nouwen’s spiritual discipline was not heroic effort but daily openness. Research from Pew (2023) shows that people with regular prayer or meditation habits report higher levels of meaning and resilience. Practicing homecoming means letting God remind us, again and again, that we belong.
At St Lucia Spirituality we believe the journey is richer when it’s shared. If you’re seeking a place to explore questions, practice mindfulness, or simply belong to an inclusive spiritual community, we invite you to join us. From online discussion groups and meditation gatherings to our growing library of resources, there’s space here for every seeker. Step into the conversation, connect with others, and discover how community can nurture your spiritual growth.
About the Author - John Scoble
John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.
While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.
Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.
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