Christ - the Lover of Humankind

This icon demonstrates Christ as the Lover of Humankind. The Gospel is open to the greatest commandment: “Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34) The emphasis of this icon is that Christ taught us by His example of sacrificial love, giving His own life for the salvation of all. This icon grew naturally, without a model. Christ’s eyes show love and compassion, but also the seriousness of human sinfulness. His halo, face, garments, and background radiate the golden light of the Holy Spirit. He is “Light of Light, true God of true God.” His eyes express love, enlivened by a sparkle of light. Let them speak to your heart.

            The Great commandment of Love is so needed with the divisions of American society into partisan camps: right versus left; us versus them. Tensions from the pandemic lockdown erupted into mass protests. George Floyd's murder in May, 2020 sparkled worldwide protests and exposed longstanding divisions in American society. The icon became my prayer for healing, repentance, and restoration of our union with God.