4/22/11 Images of the Crucifixion

²⁵ Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. ²⁶ When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” ²⁷ and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. ²⁸ Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” ²⁹ A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. ³⁰ When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Thoughts: There are many different images given of the crucifixion of Christ.  Just as each gospel gives us a different snapshot of the real event, so a painting gives us a different portrait from the artisits perspective.  Rembrandt's is probably my favorite as he has himself putting Christ on the cross. 

Prayer: Though I have seen these passages a million times, help me to see them anew this day- from different perspectives.  Help me to appreciate your cross, your sacrifice for me, O Lord.

(Rembrandt c 1633)

(Bonzino 1545)

(Greek Icon Athens)

(Raphael)

(Tinoretto 1565)

(Vouet 1622)

(Matthias Grunwald 1515 John the Baptist pointing to Jesus as the Lamb of God)

(Jame Jaques Tissot 1894 from the perspective of Jesus)

(Hans Meling d. 1480 - Budapest Museium)

(Michelangelo 1540)