And like those workers in civil rights, the costs of being a prophet may be dear. But there is the prophet's reward. And while we're talking about cost and reward, there is something very disproportionate about the way God rewards these workers. There is something out of proportion in the way God rewards people who see themselves strictly in 'supporting roles'. When we receive each other, when we hear what the other has to say, when we pass it on, the moment does not go by unrewarded.
Younger son leaves home with all the loot and spends it.
Later he repents of his actions and returns home, whereupon the father throws a party. The old man showers his son with fine clothing and gold, lots of food, live entertainment. . I guess that was the point. Indeed, the story doesn't make sense unless there is a figure in it who is capable of such extravagance. To be part of God's work is to receive each other as we would receive Christ himself.