This painting by Nathan Green based on the saying of Jesus,'..and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice', from the gospel of John, Chapter 10 and verse 4, is most inviting and revealing. Let me share three of my first impressions.
The embracing Jesus- one hand below the cheek of the sheep represents the receiving attitude of Jesus. Jesus is always welcoming and receiving all those who move towards Him. The other hand is positioned to stroke and comfort as that is what a tired sheep would need. Both hands seem to cover the face of the sheep to protect by creating a space for rest. The painter communicates his personal experience of his relationship with Jesus through that portrayal of the two hands.
The kneeling Jesus- Jesus comes down to our position. He does that spontaneously. His incarnational journey began when he was born in a manger at Bethlehem. This brings a call to all those who profess to follow Jesus. It is not condescending but identifying with all those with whom we are in touch is the way set before us. This is a genuine way of befriending and accompanying people. This is the only way the missionary heart of Jesus of Nazareth will be revealed to a broken world.
The looking Jesus- There is a communication of acceptance, gladness and warmth in the look of Jesus. The facial smile is gentle to ally any fear and guilt. It is a receiving, pardoning and caring look. The painter portrayed mercy and kindness in the facial expression of Jesus. The lighter stokes of paint creates a diffuse halo around the face and hands of Jesus. This adds a special effect to the painting. His presence is graceful.
This painting is larger than any of these thoughts. It is gospel in summary.
A seven year old child told me yesterday after the sunday school that 'Jesus is a gentle shepherd'. She said it so joyfully that I sensed that she became a good news bearer from her own personal experience during the sunday school lesson.
M.C.Mathew (text and photo)
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