The Catholic Book Club discussion

7. What is the meaning of the story "I Have Slaved For You"? Did you enjoy the story? Why or why not?

I think it shows the rejection by man's pride of God's mercy, mistaken for meddling and control.

The title invites comparison with the Prodigal Son parable, but this son is a composite of the other two. He's never run away, but he's aware that he's done a less-than-perfect job on what the father asked him to do. But he's convinced he has to "earn" his father's love, when that loving father just wants to spend time with him. When I read Jesus' parable, I always identify with the older son; this story shows up his glaring weakness/stubbornness.

I enjoyed this one. The son has good intentions but is wildly off the mark for wanting to impress his father. He didn’t even need to impress his father; his father wanted to love him just as he is.

I liked this one, but thought it was a little short.