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The Return of the Prodigal Son  By  cover art

The Return of the Prodigal Son

By: Henri J. M. Nouwen
Narrated by: Dan Anderson O.F.M.
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Publisher's summary

This powerful meditation illuminates the parable of the prodigal son found in Luke's Gospel. Nouwen discovers anew the reality that God's love is unconditional and shares his own spiritual journey with us.

In this audiobook, Nouwen shares his own experience as the wayward son as well as the vengeful older brother and the compassionate father. He speaks to all who have known loneliness, dejection, jealousy, or anger, and invites us to homecoming, affirmation, and reconciliation.

©1992 Henri J.M. Nouwen (P)2005 St. Anthony Messenger Press

What listeners say about The Return of the Prodigal Son

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Amazing gem!

This book needs to be experienced to understand its wealth. A life changing book that has made into my top ten. Thank you!

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A life altering look at this favorite parable!

This is my second time reading Nouwen's classic and I could read it many more times and still glean new understanding. His uncensored transparency and candor are a beautiful picture of humility as he recognizes himself in each of the figures of Rembrandt's work. His final realization that he (and we all) are called to be not either son but the Father himself is perspective changing- truly an invitation to life in the Kingdom of God. Dive in and be blessed- you won't retreat the time you spend with this beautiful reflection.

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Excellent study.

Strong, intuitive interpretation, usefully presented. Had dinner with Henri Nouwen in Berkeley back in 90s.

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Masterfully written

What did you love best about The Return of the Prodigal Son?

I liked the honesty and forthrightness that comes through the author's writings. I like its readability and could relate. It's worth reading over and over again until we get different chapters. I like how the chapters are broken up to teach the reader a message in each one.

What other book might you compare The Return of the Prodigal Son to and why?

Any book that calls you to be a better person through your ability to be happy with who you are and at peace. Watch Catholicism series by Bishop Robert Barron, especially his summary of the beatitudes. It breaks down the 8 beatitudes into 4 addictions to watch for (wealth, power, pleasure, honor) and 4 attitudes to develop (mercy & compassion, hunger for righteousness, love of peace & reconciliation, unencumbered heart-full speech and living).

Which character – as performed by Dan Anderson O.F.M. – was your favorite?

The three main characters of the painting, the prodigal son, the older son, and the Father.

What did you learn from The Return of the Prodigal Son that you would use in your daily life?

It has taught me the value of daily reflection and remembrance of how important each human being is in the eyes of God. It motivates me to remind myself to live in God's light and full of life everyday within the world with all of its joys and sufferings and share that joy with others.

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Stunning!

How many times have I read this? How many more times will I in the years to come! Listening has been a really special treat❗️

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FINALLY! >25 years I've intended to read.

Wonderful reflection on compassion, love, unconditional acceptance, and forgiveness from views as son, father & brother especially with how all three apply to himself.

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His best selling book — and all his books were great

Henri Nouwen takes the complex and make it simple. Here he shows how we each play the role of the prodigal son, the older son AND the father. Super helpful.

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Well thought out view of a piece of art and a bibl

Well thought out view of a piece of art and a biblical story. A bit redundant, but otherwise a good book.

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Heartfelt expressions! Practical applications!

I highly recommend this book! you might see yourself as the Prodigal or the older son but, you may have the privilege of seeing the father with a fresh perspective. then learn to show that kind of unconditional love!

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A little slow to start, but it's worth it!

Great read. Very profound and eye opening! Worth the slow start. Will definately read again.

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