Nearly all the figures in Marc Chagall’s White Crucifixion are facing away, or even moving away from the crucifix. Each individual is shown in a state of movement, of fleeing or burning, hiding or blaming. Everyone is moving. Only the face of Jesus on the cross is serene, jarringly peaceful, hauntingly resigned.
Everyone is running around. The travesties and tragedies are all the participants can focus on in this painting. No one acknowledges that at the center of their world rests Christ.
Are we so different? Though the travesties and tragedies may be a bit different from that which Chagall painted in 1938, the essence is the same - we treat each other abominably. We ignore the suffering of others, especially if the other looks different or acts differently from us.
Yet, just as in this painting, in the center of our world rests Christ on the cross. The sacrifice for all people. The God who loves each of us regardless of our worthiness or unworthiness, no matter what race or creed we claim, no matter who we voted for yesterday. Our God hangs on the cross, love at its most pure, offering the only hope for our world.
Take a moment to acknowledge Christ’s immense love for you...love for those around you...love for those who you find so difficult to love.
And perhaps take some time to head to our own Art Institute here in the city and see this work of art in person.
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