From “The Soulwork of Justice: Four Movements for Contemplative Action” by Wesley Granberg-Michaelson
The late Henri Nouwen had the gift of putting recognizable experiences of our spiritual and psychological journeys into illumining words and truths. In The Return of the Prodigal Son, a brilliant reflection on Rembrandt’s painting of that parable, Nouwen uncovers the penetrating power of hearing God’s voice assuring you that you are truly beloved, just like the prodigal son, who was embraced by his father. And Nouwen describes what internalizing that truth means, in words I think are particularly profound for those involved in ministry, activism, leadership, and service.
As the Beloved, I can confront, console, admonish and encourage without fear of rejection or need of affirmation. As the Beloved, I can suffer persecution without desire for revenge and receive praise without using it as a proof of my goodness.
Those are words I’ve held close, printed and made like a home page. For anyone seeing authenticity I recommend you put those words in a place that can regularly attract your attention. They will be there for your faltering movements from grandiosity to authenticity. And put you back on the path.