Oh yeah, that’s such an amazing story! Have you ever read Henri Nouwen’s book on the topic, The Return of the Prodigal Son? (It’s initially more about Rembrandt’s painting, but of course gets well into the parable.) Really thoughtful reflection with a lot of unexpected angles, if you’re ever interested.
You omitted the last verse.
And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.
He could have taken the kid to celebrate with his friends at any point. He's blaming his father for his own reluctance to be joyful.
I might as well be the first to recommend this book.
https://www.amazon.com/Return-Prodigal-Son-Story-Homecoming/dp/0385473079
The author spent literal hours staring at this picture and meditating upon it.
I think you will like this book. The Return of The Prodigal Son By Henri Nouwen https://www.amazon.com/Return-Prodigal-Son-Story-Homecoming/dp/0385473079/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+return+of+the+prodigal+son+by+henri+nouwen&qid=1597459192&sprefix=the+ret&sr=8-1
I'm a fan of Henri Nouwen's "Return of the Prodigal Son" to help with that. Listened to the audiobook on a retreat and found it really helpful. Depends of course on the specific circumstances, but it's a helpful resource nonetheless.
Thanks for the clarification on the NCCS/MCCY discussion. I was a bit confused as to what relationship led to the invitation and the relationship between FCC and NCCS after that invite.
The important point I wish to make here is that we don’t need to agree on all theological issues, even hot button ones, for us to be cordial and civil in our discussions and treatment of each other. We cannot let differences on theology on same-sex relationship divide us. After all, we don’t let other issues divide us in the same way.
Also, seeing as you’ve shared so many of your own resources, I’d like to share two short books which I found to be very inspiring (if you haven’t already come across them):
https://www.amazon.com/Return-Prodigal-Son-Story-Homecoming/dp/0385473079
I can personally recommend this one.
Have you read Nouwen's book about it?