Exploring Transformation Through the Prodigal Son: Lessons from Rembrandt and Nouwen

"Simon with Jesus" (1669) was Rembrandt's last, unfinished painting, created in the year of his death. The artwork presents a dark, intimate, and deeply emotional focus on the figures. Both the elderly Simon, the prophet, and Rembrandt were losing their sight at the end of their lives, yet the painting's theme suggests that answers to prayers may come in the form of a baby, needing time to mature for its purpose. If you are seeking answers to your prayers, you might, like Simeon and symbolically Rembrandt, already be holding an answer to your prayers in form of a "baby Jesus" in your hands, but it needs to grow to maturity to fulfill its purpose. If you're curious about whether your prayers have been answered but must wait for their realization, today's blog post is tailored for you. 

Rembrandt, Oil on Canvas, Location: Nationalmuseum, Stockholm

Rembrandt's early life was similar to that of many artists of his time, characterized by independence and indulgence. However, in his later years, Rembrandt reconnected with his Christian roots with a more mature perspective, evident in his numerous works featuring Biblical themes. Reflecting on Rembrandt's final piece, “Simeon with Jesus,” I pondered whether, in his last days, he symbolically cradled baby Jesus in his arms, akin to Simeon the prophet who prayed for the Messiah's arrival. 

Exploring Transformation Through the Prodigal Son: Lessons from Rembrandt and Nouwen

After recently reading books by two different authors, including the one who wrote “Prodigal Son,” I came to understand that even centuries after Rembrandt's death, his paintings still profoundly affect lives with the light of Jesus. Whether or not Rembrandt anticipated this outcome (I personally think he did in his later years), his art continues to bring light of Christ to dark parts of people's lives centuries after Rembrandt's death. 

Both Russ Ramsey and Henry Nouwen were motivated to write books about how Rembrandt's works influenced their lives and illuminated the dark areas of their hearts. Their experiences with Jesus through Rembrandt's paintings are profoundly meaningful and touched my heart. 

If you feel the need to change direction in dealing with a specific problem, perhaps exploring the story of the prodigal son this week might be beneficial. 

Recently, Nouwen’s book “Prodigal Son,” which reflects on Rembrandt’s painting “Prodigal Son,” coincided with my reading of the story Jesus told about the prodigal son returning to his father. This experience influenced me to change direction while prayerfully addressing an issue.

I recall how, at various times and under different circumstances, I could relate to different characters in the story portrayed by Jesus and painted by Rembrandt. In light of your current struggle, I encourage you to read the story repeatedly until you see yourself in either of the two sons, whether you are approaching or returning to the Father about a specific issue. Approaching God as a child and opening our hearts in prayer is a truly life changing experience. In both interactions with his sons, the Father is warm and offers comfort, affirmation, or encouragement.

During your journey towards God, in moments of quiet reflection and prayer, it will become clear if you need to confess feelings of envy and bitterness or seek repentance for your struggles. Whatever path you need to follow to achieve change, you will be blessed with the Father's gift to you, a baby Jesus. It may take some time for your prayers to be answered, as you may need to mature before change occurs. Regardless, you will find yourself peacefully residing in your Father's house, secure, content, and protected.