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+John of Damascus, 749+
“Through the shadows of our longing
Comes the Son of truth to save”
The Light of Christmas Day by Peter Mayer
Damascus, it’s in the news these days. We pray for all the
people afflicted by the conflicts in Syria. On this date the church give thanks
for the witness of John of Damascus. At a time in the church when religious
images/icons were outlawed, John of Damascus articulated a policy of
veneration. You can read more about his life and work HERE.
One of the Highlights of my sabbatical was going to art
museums in London and Paris. My flat in London was right behind the National
Gallery. http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
Some days I would “pop-in” for just 30 minutes or so, just
because I could. You can take the “Nativities Trail” by linking HERE.
I was guided in my wanderings and wonderings by a fabulous
book written by Rev’d Bishop Nicholas Holtam, who is now the Bishop of
Salisbury. Bishop Holtam previously served as Vicar of St. Martin - in -the
-Fields (which is where I got to meet him and know him). His book, The Art of
Worship co-published by the National Gallery and Yale University Press is also
the basis and focus of our Lenten Retreat at church in February, 2013.
The subtitle of this lovely book is, Paintings, Prayers and
Readings for Meditation. Had not the work of John of Damascus “turned the tide”
back in the 8th Century, this book would never has seen the “light of day.”
Many days when I was “hungry” I would go to the National
Gallery. While I could have consumed more fish and chips what I
was truly hungry for was an encounter with the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ. In
addition to my daily participation in Morning Prayer at St. Martin’s, I was
“fed” by the wonderful paintings in the National Gallery.
Peter is so “spot on” (as the British like to say) when he
sings,
“Through the shadows of our longing
Comes the Son of truth to save”
I was able to experience the “Son of truth” by wondering
around the National Gallery.
Today, I encourage you to “highlight” an artwork in your
life that has meant something significant to you. Acknowledge the “shadows” and
bask in the Light. The Son of truth is on his way!
Peace,
rtg
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