The Challenge of Easter

 

I love the way that powerful art can touch my spirit and lead me into deep reflection, open up new insights and truths in my life. The Human One did that for me this week. An exhibition of 29 paintings by artist Jeremy Thomas, exploring the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, it’s touring the UK and has been at Chester cathedral over Holy Week. Rich in symbolism, exquisite in hidden detail and stunningly painted, Jez’s artwork awakened me to wonder and awe.

But the paintings also reminded me of how easy it is for us to turn away from Jesus, once the Hallelujahs are over and the Easter eggs all eaten.

The dramatic image of Peter’s Denials, painted in a palette of blood red, shows an anguished Peter in the corner of a darkened courtyard, whilst in the foreground we see a powerful image of Christ’s chained hand, and in the distance, a rooster crowing. It’s a starkly dramatic image that both reminds me of what Jesus went through and pierces at the heart of my own denials.

The second, a much gentler image, is an unconventional depiction of Palm Sunday. We see a figure walking towards us, who might possibly be Jesus, but on closer inspection we see Jesus and his excited followers riding out of the picture up ahead. Jez’s own words describe this better than I can.

A figure moves towards us, at first glance you think it’s the Messiah Himself, but no, he is you, he is me, walking away from the King and dropping his palm to the floor. He represents the fickle nature of humankind as he takes these steps towards the open doorway in the foreground. He is done with cheering. Now he wants blood. He will find the hammer and nails, the spilled thirty pieces of silver before he recollects the loaves and fishes and vats of wine, once water.

We have a wonderful Saviour who has done remarkable things for us but whom it isn't always easy to follow.  Living out the miracle of Christ’s death and resurrection is both a privilege and a daily challenge.  May we never underestimate what he went through for us, or the unfathomable depth of his love.

Easter Blessings as you journey onward ...

Further information on Jeremy Thomas's artwork can be found here The Human One. Seeing the art up close and personal is an altogether better experience if you have the opportunity; close inspection reveals beautiful hidden details that it's otherwise easy to miss.  Enjoy   ...

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