Chewing on the Parable of the Prodigal Son

Over the years I’ve often used the phrase, “That will give us something to chew on.”  I’ve used the thought of chewing on something most often when I’ve thrown out an idea.  I don’t want people to make a decision immediately, just to think on it give it some consideration and talk with one another about it.

This week I’m chewing on the Parable of the Prodigal Son, which is the gospel lesson for next Sunday. (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32) I’m using Kenneth Bailey’s “The Cross and the Prodigal Son”; “The Return of the Prodigal Son” by Henri Nouwen and “The Parable of the Prodigal Son” by Hugh of St. Cher who died in 1263.

The Hebrew word for meditate is to chew one’s cud until it is fully assimilated.  By Friday, when I teach the parable in Bible Class I trust I will be well nourished.