We would like to share with you a reflection on a captivating piece of religious art called "Christ on the Cross Contemporary." This artwork was inspired by the biblical account of the Crucifixion, which can be found in all four Gospels: Matthew 27:32-56, Mark 15:21-41, Luke 23:26-49, and John 19:16-37.
This contemporary depiction of Christ on the cross serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus made for our salvation. As we delve into the biblical verses that inspired the artist, let us open our hearts to the profound meaning behind this masterpiece.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we read about the crucifixion of Jesus and the various events that transpired during this momentous event. Matthew 27:45-46 describes the darkness that covered the land, symbolizing the weight of the sins of the world that Jesus bore on the cross: "From noon until three in the afternoon, darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 'Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?' (which means 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?')." The artist captures this moment of darkness and despair, emphasizing the depth of Jesus' suffering for our sake.
In Mark's account of the crucifixion, we find the poignant moment when Jesus utters His final words before giving up His spirit (Mark 15:37): "With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last." The artist has skillfully portrayed the intensity of this moment, reminding us of the ultimate sacrifice made by our Lord and Savior.
Luke's Gospel provides another perspective on the crucifixion, highlighting the interaction between Jesus and the two criminals crucified alongside Him. In Luke 23:42-43, we read, "Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'" This exchange illustrates the grace and mercy of Jesus, even in His final moments, which the artist has gracefully incorporated into the artwork.
Lastly, in John's Gospel, we see the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus' crucifixion, as described in John 19:28-30: "Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, 'I am thirsty.' 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. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, 'It is finished.' With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." The artist captures the profound significance of these final moments, as Jesus completes His divine mission on the cross.
"Christ on the Cross Contemporary" is a beautiful and evocative representation of the crucifixion, inspired by the biblical verses that recount this pivotal event in the Christian faith. Let us reflect on the meaning behind this exquisite artwork, remembering the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf and embracing the redemption and salvation that it signifies.
Amen.