Lent Thirty Two "Get up and Walk"

 

The Game of Chess by Sofonisba Angussissola, 
National Museum in Poznań, Poland

It would not be better if things happened to men just as they wish.  Heraclitus, Fragments, 52 C 500 BCE

This painting was completed in 1555 by the twenty three (ish) year old Sofonisba.  How is came to move across Europe is interesting.  It was acquired by Lucian, the younger brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, but changed hands many times before arriving in Poznań. Sofonisba was talent-spotted by the king of Spain, who saw what an incredible artist she was.  It's worth a trip to Poznań just for this.

Heraclitus notes that sometimes we don't know what is good for us.  It reminds me of my thought that an averagely intelligent twelve year old could probably address all the problems of the world., and put them right, within thirty minutes of deliberation.  We are helpless babes, how need a saviour.

Zechariah One and Two

In a myrtle grove, in a shallow valley, I saw a man seated on a red horse. Behind him rode other riders on red, white and brown horses. I asked the messenger beside me “what does this mean?” The messenger reassured me that I was about to find out. “These are a patrol sent by the Creator to all corners of the globe.” One came over to the messenger and reported that the whole earth was at peace. The messenger looked up to the heavens and called out: “Creator of all, you have held anger against these people for seventy years. When will be the time of mercy?” I heard the reply, spoken straight away, with such kind and comforting words. Patiently the messenger explained: “Your task is to tell the people. Tell them that the Creator is loving and passionate. The Creator cares about what you have been through. Other nations are at peace despite inflecting hardship on you. The Creator now shows you mercy. You will come back to your city and rebuild its meeting places. Prosperity and order will return.” Then I noticed strange beasts with four horns. The messenger nodded and said these represent the nations that gored Israel. And following the beasts came four blacksmiths. “These people will hound the beasts and inflect revenge.” Next appeared a person carrying a measuring tape. Again I heard the explanation. “The city is to be measured and prepared for the returning people. Such a throng will gather that some will have to wait outside, but the Creator will protect them all with a wall of fire. And the Creator’s glory will fill every part of the city.” “Welcome, come back home. You are now untouchable. Shout joyfully, beautiful Jerusalem; I am coming to live amongst you. You will be joined by many from other nations. Be still, all humanity, and witness what the Creator is doing.”

PRAYER:  I trust what you are doing, and that you act with love and compassion.