Dear Everyone,

I’ve been enjoying this our Advent readalong. There’s something special about being introduced to a new work of art each day and having the opportunity to meditate on it within the context of Advent. Some of the artwork has surprised me. For example, I’ve never thought of Hieronymous Bosch’s triptych, “The Garden of Earthly Delights,” as an Advent work. But Jane Williams’ commentary places Bosch’s work into a wider context. While she references C.S. Lewis, I think of Dante. The themes Williams emphasizes are certainly themes explored by Dante in his “Inferno,” and a reminder of the purpose of Advent: to save us from ourselves. I had the pleasure of viewing the triptych in person during my last visit to Madrid’s Prado Museum. You can view it here.

I was also surprised but very pleased to see Rembrandt’s “The Return of the Prodigal Son.” This painting is one of my favourites and I feature it in “Gabriel’s Inferno.” Again, although I had never thought of this work as an Advent work, William’s commentary and especially her prayer, caused me to rethink the painting. Here is her prayer, “Lord, lead us this Advent into the abundance of your limitless love, and as your Holy Spirit welcomes us, may we also welcome each other, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

Which painting from this first week is your favourite? Did any of them surprise you? As we embark on the second week of Advent, today, I want to thank you once again for joining me on this virtual Advent pilgrimage. I wish you a continued Blessed Advent and I look forward to your comments below.

Thank you for reading,

SR.

www.sylvainreynard.com