Perhaps you have heard of Rembrandt (1606-1669), one of the greatest Dutch painters. Rembrandt, in a unique manner, was able to combine the skill of art and poetry to create a type of portraiture which had been untried. He gave his painting an air of mystery while combining action, drama and violent contrasts of light and dark. This is quite evident in “The Night Watch,” painted in 1642, and possibly the climax of his work. With dramatic light affects, it is regarded as one of the world’s finest paintings– unified, unsurpassed and truly a great visual experience. Other etchings of his are Jesus Christ and the Samaritan. In 1961 Rembrandt’s “Aristotle Contemplating the Bust of Homer” was sold for $2.3 million, the highest price ever paid for a painting at that time.

Yet, there were days when Rembrandt wished he was never born. Yes, he did marry a prominent Dutch girl and became wealthy as he built up a large art portfolio. But tragedy struck as his 3 young children died and his wife died 8 years after their marriage. Rembrandt withdrew from society and his popularity diminished. He made some poor financial decisions and could not pay his debtors. He married his housekeeper who helped protect his works from creditors. Alas, she died soon after, along with his son, Titus. When Rembrandt died, people had almost entirely forgotten him.

However, his last painting, The Prodigal Son, depicts the true Rembrandt. It reveals a son, kneeling at the feet of the Father, crushed and repentant, seeking pardon for the life he had squandered. The Father extends a hand of love and forgiveness, while offering hope and consolation. Rembrandt was this son. He realized he was the lost son who had recklessly lavished the family fortunes away. The scene is sad, melancholy – yet tinged with an enigmatic aura of expectant hopefulness. Though considering himself a failure, Rembrandt sensed the Father’s arm of mercy and grace embracing him.

This story of the Prodigal Son, taken from Luke Chapter 15 in the Bible, draws to a climax in verse 24, “This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found! So they began to celebrate.” This verse is not limited to Rembrandt; it is open for fugitives like you and me, who come to a pointing life where there is no other choice but to go Home and ask Father for acceptance and renewal. Do you get the picture?

The parable gives the sense that the Father almost looks through binoculars, attempting to locate you, me, that son/daughter, wearily trudging forward, pondering what home would be like. God desires to show us a wonderful plan in store along with ample celebration. This image is so vivid and real.

May I ask you to become that person, kneeling in Rembrandt’s painting?

Author unknown. If anyone has a proprietary interest in this story please authenticate and I will be happy to credit, or remove, as the circumstances dictate.

Thanks to DW Owner dw-owner@lists.gospelcom.net