Rembrandt's "Return of the Prodigal Son" graces the reception room at the Abbey. In the dark hours before sunrise the light over the painting illuminates the radiant textures and colors. The images are compelling, drawing me into the parable.
It seems that every year I arrive with a slightly different demeanor. There are some years when I see myself as the one falling to my knees, exhausted from the travels of my soul since I was last home. I yearn only for loving reassurance that I am welcome. At other times I enter with all sorts of questions: Where have I wandered, and why? What knowledge or wisdom might God impart to me ... will it be a confirmation of something that has been timidly meandering through my mind? Or will it be a cataclysmic shout of truth... an admonition that will lift me up and set my feet on a new path?
Every year is different. Every entrance into the Abbey is different. Sometimes I see myself in the figures who are observing the loving encounter... Something within observes the welcome, and wonders, "What amazing love is this!!!!" And yes, there are times when I feel the rumble of self-righteous judgment saying: "What, even that is welcomed by the Father?"
It is so simple, yet so awesome... In this place all are welcome! Come as you are... not how you wish you could be. You are met in your authentic condition...how you really are. You are embraced by God's love, enveloping you in whatever the Father knows you most need....
2 comments:
I too have been drawn to this parable lately. The border lands of the Father's estate and the initial intimate reception where the Father runs to meet his son has held me captivated. This painting reminds me of the outrageous, lavish, public display of who this Father really is. How could I but love you, the one who first loved me.
Father Jerome, the guestmaster at the Abbey welcomed the retreatants by saying something like: Is there anything that you are carrying that you wouldn't want anybody to know about? Deeds, or words, or thoughts? Well, the Father knows ... and loves you beyond measure... and welcomes you ... and will listen to all that you have to say about any of that.... and wants you to listen to His response.
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