My Easter Reflections based on 'Souza - 'Crucifixion'

Personal Reflections on Souza’s Crucifixion

<Image courtesy of Tate Britain - all copyright belongs to its respective owner>

Reflection:

Ugly, grotesque and unpleasant. The grim reality of death and injustice permeate this picture as you behold the one true light in thick darkness, surrounded by those in bright clothes - those who ‘appear’ to be attractive but are, in fact, the unattractive ones. They, in their bright raiment, are instruments of pride, deception and death. Jesus, the light of the world, slain by the darkened ones, by eternal design, brings the light in the background of this painting to the foreground. His ugly fate would bring to light injustice and sin and seal its fate as crushed forevermore for the darkness cannot overcome the true light.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you that you took on the ugliness of death and conquered it completely. You suffered at the hands of those in darkness, yet your light has never been overcome. We thank you that your light lives in us so that we may live in hope and anticipation of victory in every dark valley we find ourselves in. Amen.