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: Modern Biblical Art
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Forgiveness as a Gift of Love: Pascal Fessler’s “Return of Judas”
Reflection • Pascal Fessler’s Return of Judas imagines Judas returning after betraying Jesus and asks whether forgiveness is possible. Placing viewers among the disciples, the painting challenges us to confront Christ’s command to love and forgive—even when it feels impossible.
Originally published in Words of Grace, Grace Church Cathedral (Charleston, South Carolina), March 2026.
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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 