James B. Janknegt’s The Two Sons retells Luke 15 in contemporary imagery and brings the older brother to the foreground. This video shows how the painting reframes the Prodigal Son as a test of grace, resentment, and reconciliation for those still in the father’s house.
Tag: Inclusion
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The Concordia Apostolorum (Harmony) Icon
Reflection • Traces the icon of Peter and Paul embracing as a visual theology of disagreement held in communion. Uses Acts and Paul’s rebuke of Peter to ask whether our debates include neighbors—or push them from Christ’s love.
Originally published in Words of Grace, Grace Church Cathedral (Charleston, South Carolina), July 2025.
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“The Two Sons”
Reflection • Interprets Janknegt’s modern retelling as a map of sin, return, and the father’s jubilant grace in everyday American scenes. Centers the older brother’s self-righteous refusal as the parable’s enduring test: will we join mercy—or choose exclusion?
Originally published in Words of Grace, Grace Church Cathedral (Charleston, South Carolina), March 2025.
Gayle L. Goudy 