By Fr. Brian Stankich+
There is a lot of art that I do not appreciate, but one aspect of art I’m learning to appreciate more and more are stained glass windows that adorn church buildings.
Grace Church has a nice selection. One day in the near future I will lead a tour of the stained glass windows.
This morning I was in our beautiful sanctuary praying and I was struck by one particular window. It is the window facing Watula Ave, next to the prayer candles. The art depicts Jesus, looking like a shepherd, holding a lamb. It’s a beautiful image of the Good Shepherd who cares for his sheep. That’s us.
As fine looking as Jesus is, that’s not the part of the art most striking to me. Rather, it’s two children affixed to Jesus: one boy and one girl.
The boy is affixed physically, attached to Jesus’ leg, showing a bit of contented mischief. He clings to Jesus, fully trusting his shepherd for all things.
The girl is affixed emotionally, her posture giving full attention to Jesus’ face. The look on her face is a combination of joy and anticipation. Joy, in that she can go to Jesus. Anticipation, in that she can ask anything of Jesus.
This window reminds me that Jesus cares for me and takes care of me. Wonderful.
The other windows portray scenes from Jesus’ earthly life, prophets, angels, and other images that reflect the glory of God.
In the coming Sundays, be sure to look at one or more of the windows. What do you feel as you look? How might these beautiful windows enhance your worship and your sense of God in that place and in your heart?
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