Visio Divina
Ask for the grace to see and receive from the Holy. Sit silently and contemplate the image for a few minutes.
What word or phrase comes to mind? What emotion arises?
Who are the figures? Note the postures, faces, hands, clothing.
Notice the colors, shadows, lighting.
Continue to sit quietly with this painting.
Consider the compassion of God, the unconditioned love,
the return of the once-far-off child.
Place yourself in the scene. Consider the perspective of the characters.
Ask and allow the Spirit to remind you that you are divinely embraced, in each and every moment of this day.
For more info about Rembrandt’s Return of the Prodigal Son:
- Online Exhibit – Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg Russia
- Video – Narrated Visio Divina with Rembrandt’s Return of the Prodigal
- Book – Read Henri Nouwen’s classic work about his profound relationship with this painting
- Video – A Reflection & Conversation on “Henri Nouwen and the Return of the Prodigal Son”