John Clark on Truth, Love, and the Prodigal Son

"Of all the parables, the story of the Prodigal Son is perhaps the most beloved.  Many of us who have encountered the Father of Mercies in the sacrament of Penance see a parallel to our own lives, as well we should.  Yet, one aspect of this parable is often overlooked - it is lesson about love, truth, and the vital connection between the two.

"The parable does not explain exactly why the prodigal son wanted to leave home, but we do know this: he no longer wanted to live with his father.  The son seemed sick and tired of living according to his father's rules; instead, the son wished to live under his own set of rules, which is to say, no rules at all.  Referring to the prodigal son, St. Augustine writes: 'But if he perversely wishes to imitate God, that as God has no one by whom He is governed, so should he desire to exercise his own power as to live under no rules, what remains for him but that having lost all heat he should grow cold and senseless, and, departing from truth, vanish away.'

"After seeing the senselessness of living under his own rules, the son came to realize his emptiness and resolved not only to go back home to his father, but rehearsed a speech he plans on delivering when he arrives.  Though his contrition was imperfect - being motivated by fear of continued misery rather than being motivated by love for his father - he was contrite.  The father sees his son coming from a far way off and runs out to greet him, kiss him, and tell his servants to prepare a feast for his son."

In a recent commentary, writer John Clark reflected on truth, contrition, the prodigal son's return, and his father's response.

To access Mr. Clark's complete post, please visit:

National Catholic Register: Blogs: John Clark: What The Prodigal Son’s Father Teaches Us About Love and Truth (28 JUN 17)