The Gospel of Matthew: Consider the Lilies
On first glance, this image embodies simplicity. But the painting’s surface actually involves over sixty fine layers of precious minerals and metals (gold, malachite, azurite, and platinum), as well as sumi ink cured for over a century. Seen in person, the complexities and subtle beauty of each layer speak deeply of that which transcends.
Beauty is always around us. Sometimes it emerges on its own and makes itself nearly impossible to ignore, unveiling its glory right in front of our eyes. But more often, beauty is hidden and requires a process of discovery. One way or another, it necessitates knocking on doors and then looking to see what’s on the other side—or even stepping over the thresholds of dark, mysterious rooms that are yet to be illumined.
In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches about a spiritual reality that calls us to live in a completely countercultural, supernatural way. And the image He paints for His audience is deceptively simple. He tells us to consider the lilies—even man’s finest adornments cannot compare with their innate splendor. Fujimura chose the spare beauty of this image to illuminate the first gospel book. “This [is] a crucial step that needs to be taken before we’re able to ‘seek the kingdom of God,’” he says. “These Easter lilies opening up suggest that even the common can be transformed into a post-Resurrection, generative reality.”
No comments:
Post a Comment