ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
December 25, 2022
In the first chapter of John’s Gospel, we find the words:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
In Rembrandt’s painting, “The Adoration of the Shepherds,” the artist depicts the holy family in a barn with shepherds surrounding them. The painting is dark, except for the light radiating from the Christ child. It is because of this light from the manger that we are able to see the individual faces of those gathered at the nativity. I don’t know whether the artist intended it or not, but whatever the case, I want us to give thanks for the light of love that shines anew in this world and allows us to see more clearly the sacred beauty of every human being. On this Christmas Day, let us see with new clarity what the gift of the Christ Child reveals to us.
CLICK HERE to view the painting.
You have provided us, O Word made Flesh, with the brilliance of your presence, through which we are able to better see the value and beauty within each member of the human family. For this gift, we give you thanks! Amen.
