Messiah
"An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah . . ." ~ Matthew 1.1a
The word Messiah is the translation of the Old Testament Hebrew word “mashiach” and Greek New Testament word “christos,” both meaning “anointed one.” Old Testament prophets had foretold of one sent by God who would be anointed by God’s spirit to inaugurate God’s kingdom; a kingdom where the people of God will yield to God’s kingship in their lives. Jesus was the Messiah, the Christ, the anointed One, coming to make God’s kingdom and kingship available to all who would place their faith in Him.
The entire Old Testament serves as preparation for receiving the Messiah. We’re given specific pieces of information about where (Bethlehem) and how (through a miraculous birth) He’ll arrive. Numerous events, images, and types foreshadow the climactic event of Scripture. And we’re told of the Messiah’s ancestors through detailed genealogies.
Matthew began his account of the Messiah’s life with a genealogy because he was writing primarily for Jewish readers. They were used to reading genealogies in their Scriptures and would feel at home with them. A list of names going all the way back to Abraham would prepare them to see Matthew’s book as a continuation of their Scriptures.
As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, we should be careful not to focus all our energies on household decorations or gift purchases. Let us prepare our hearts as well. That might include examining our darkest sins to prepare for the wonder of forgiveness. Or it might mean exploring our doubts in order to seek diligently to find answers that satisfy more than just our intellect. Advent can prepare us for a deeper experience of Christmas.
Prayer
Lord God, Author of life and my Creator, help me to prepare for celebrating the Messiah’s birth during this Advent season. Grant me joy in expectation, peace in the midst of busyness, and trust in Your provision of salvation. Amen.
Supper in the House of Simon Pharisee (1550-1554) by Moretto de Brescia
(oil on canvas, Santa Maria Calchera, Brescia, Italy)
All four gospels recount a story of Jesus being anointed with expensive perfume (Matthew 26.6-13; Mark 14.3-9; Luke 7.36-50; John 12.1-8). This happened at the house of Simon the Pharisee early in the ministry of Jesus and again at the house of Simon the Leper two days before Passover at the end of his ministry.
This masterpiece has captivated art lovers for centuries. This painting stands out for its Renaissance artistic style, which is characterized by precision in the representation of the human figure and perspective. The composition of the painting is impressive, as Moretto Da Brescia manages to create a lively and dynamic scene that captures the viewer’s attention. In the center of the painting, Jesus is seated at the table surrounded by his disciples and the guests of Simon Pharisee. Jesus’ expression is serene and calm, while the other characters seem to be in constant movement and dialogue.
The use of color in the painting is another interesting aspect, since Moretto Da Brescia uses a palette of soft and warm colors that create a cozy and calm atmosphere. Golden and brown tones predominate in the composition, which helps to highlight the figure of Jesus in the center of the painting.
The history of the painting is also fascinating, as it is believed to have been commissioned by the Bishop of Brescia in the 16th century as a piece of religious art for the city’s cathedral. The painting has been the subject of multiple interpretations and analysis over the years, making it a work of art full of meaning and symbolism.
Regarding the lesser known aspects of the painting, it has been suggested that Moretto Da Brescia may have used live models to create the figure of Jesus and the other characters in the painting. In addition, it has been pointed out that the painting can be seen as a criticism of the hypocrisy and vanity of the society of the time, since Simon Pharisee is portrayed as an ostentatious and vain host.
In short, the painting Supper in the House of Simon Pharisee by Moretto Da Brescia is an impressive work of art that stands out for its artistic style, composition, color, and symbolic meaning. This painting is a sample of the talent and creativity of one of the most important artists of the Italian Renaissance.
Supper in the House of Simon Pharisee (1550-1554)
by Moretto Da Brescia
(oil on canvas, Santa Maria Calchera, Brescia, Italy)
All four gospels recount a story of Jesus being anointed with expensive perfume (Matthew 26.6-13; Mark 14.3-9; Luke 7.36-50; John 12.1-8). This happened at the house of Simon the Pharisee early in the ministry of Jesus and again at the house of Simon the Leper two days before Passover at the end of his ministry.
This masterpiece has captivated art lovers for centuries. This painting stands out for its Renaissance artistic style, which is characterized by precision in the representation of the human figure and perspective. The composition of the painting is impressive, as Moretto Da Brescia manages to create a lively and dynamic scene that captures the viewer’s attention. In the center of the painting, Jesus is seated at the table surrounded by his disciples and the guests of Simon Pharisee. Jesus’ expression is serene and calm, while the other characters seem to be in constant movement and dialogue.
The use of color in the painting is another interesting aspect, since Moretto Da Brescia uses a palette of soft and warm colors that create a cozy and calm atmosphere. Golden and brown tones predominate in the composition, which helps to highlight the figure of Jesus in the center of the painting.
The history of the painting is also fascinating, as it is believed to have been commissioned by the Bishop of Brescia in the 16th century as a piece of religious art for the city’s cathedral. The painting has been the subject of multiple interpretations and analysis over the years, making it a work of art full of meaning and symbolism.
Regarding the lesser known aspects of the painting, it has been suggested that Moretto Da Brescia may have used live models to create the figure of Jesus and the other characters in the painting. In addition, it has been pointed out that the painting can be seen as a criticism of the hypocrisy and vanity of the society of the time, since Simon Pharisee is portrayed as an ostentatious and vain host.
In short, the painting Supper in the House of Simon Pharisee by Moretto Da Brescia is an impressive work of art that stands out for its artistic style, composition, color, and symbolic meaning. This painting is a sample of the talent and creativity of one of the most important artists of the Italian Renaissance.
Playlist Daily Highlight
Take the time to listen . . . really listen to the words of this song. Reflect on them. Let God’s spirit speak to you in this moment.
