tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36360789.post1694224697435588203..comments2010-09-29T23:10:51.131-07:00Comments on Satis Est: a Confessional Lutheran in the ELCA: The Parable of the Lost Son -- A ReflectionThe Rev. Erma Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14077663881199918671noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36360789.post-9498363245038850052010-03-16T18:34:28.180-07:002010-03-16T18:34:28.180-07:00Hmmm... would the ELCA be classed as an eldest son...Hmmm... would the ELCA be classed as an eldest son or a younger? Though I am not sure the question fits and sounds rather harsh, I'd favor citing our denomination as the younger.., not yet wise and returning from pig slopping. Would that status designate the elder to be the traditional, confessional Lutheran church?TeeJayhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03267366765378884367noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36360789.post-768710583751860652010-03-16T10:08:20.689-07:002010-03-16T10:08:20.689-07:00TeeJay, I would agree that the major emphasis is w...TeeJay, I would agree that the major emphasis is with the prodigal grace of the father. But the story doesn't end with his forgiveness of the younger son, but continues with his relationship with the elder. I have been pondering much on that elder son, how he is perceived by us and where his story may lead. That is the focus of my reflection here, in hope that it may be a hopeful word in the midst of much family division among us.The Rev. Erma Wolfhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14077663881199918671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36360789.post-46464727171011875072010-03-16T08:04:03.961-07:002010-03-16T08:04:03.961-07:00I remembered readings from "Generation to Gen...I remembered readings from "Generation to Genteration". The book discusses elder to younger children relationships and usual family dynamics. The gospel mirrors patterns prevalent for society, thus is very relevant. I believe the story's first emphasis, however, reveals the estatic and forgiving grace of the "father", who never gives up and does not tire in looking for the prodigal from "afar off".TeeJayhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03267366765378884367noreply@blogger.com