THE OLDEST SON
LENT 40 day time – Day 32
Scripture reading: “… And he became angry …. Then his father went out and begged him.” Luke 15:28
The distance between the eldest son and the other figures in the painting is visible, a distance that is symbolic of a lack of relationship and connection. Maybe Rembrandt van Rijn did it on purpose. The eldest son’s attitude is one of envy and aloofness, a reminder of the struggle of the human heart against jealousy and resentment.
The spectators in the painting represent a variety of emotions and reactions. The one, possibly a Pharisee, displays powerlessness and indignation at the father’s loving acceptance of his son. The other, possibly the boy’s mother, shines with hopeful eyes as she watches the embrace, perhaps with joy that the broken relationship has been repaired.
Let this painting remind us of the necessity of forgiveness, tolerance and compassion. This Lent, may we open our hearts to the loving forgiveness of our Heavenly Father, and may we have the courage to show love and compassion to those who may condemn or ostracize us.
Prayer: Dear God, we admit that we often struggle to show love and forgiveness to those we consider different or inferior. Help us to open our hearts to your loving mercy, and to see ourselves in the light of your forgiveness. May we be taught to love as you love, without prejudice or judgment. Amen.
Reflection questions:
- How do you identify with the emotions of the eldest son and the spectators in the painting? How can this empathy affect your relationship with other people?
- What lessons can we learn from the attitudes of the father and the possible Pharisee in the painting? How can we apply this to our own lives?
- How can we open our hearts to the hopeful expectations of the mother in the painting, and be a source of love and support for those around us?