Good Friday
Käthe Kollwitz, Pietà (Mother with dead Son), 1937-1939
This day is probably the most solemn of the Liturgical calendar. It is a day when Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This can be practiced with a day of fasting, praying the Stations of the Cross, or a veneration of the cross.
This year though I am drawn to a Pietà. Michelangelo’s is the most famous one, but it this bronze by Käthe Kollwitz I invite you to. The artist herself insisted that this was not a religious work though it has been viewed this way by so many. The sculpture is dedicated to the artist’s son, who was killed in action during World War I. Both readings, I think, fit on this Good Friday.
So whichever way you practice Good Friday, consider who you have to mourn today. Who do you need to hold close in your compassion? It could be Jesus, a member of your family, or maybe even yourself.
If you need a more guided mediation (I usually do), add this week’s Prayer for the World to your Visio Divina.
Visio Divina
Spend 3-5 minutes looking at this painting. Resist looking up any more information about it. The artist gives us everything we need to see. Notice any colors, patterns, plays of light and dark. Take in the whole image.
Let your eyes rest on the part of the image that captures your attention. Stay with that for a few minutes, trying not to wander. Breathe.
Consider what emotions this focus evokes in you? There is a reason you are drawn to this part of the work of art. What stirs in you?
Respond with your own words. You can write these down as a private mediation or prayer or share with others in the comments who may be practicing this Visio Divina with you.