The Mystic Nativity by Botticelli caught my attention because it was chock full of subjects and color. Click here to read the painter’s intention. I don’t think my interpretation comes close to what’s described but it’s interesting to see how God speaks regardless.
It’s a sign
First I notice Christ in the center – naked, smack dab in the middle of all the bustle. My first reaction to his nakedness was – he came into the world stripped and left the world the same way. The manner in which he entered the world was a prefigurement to how he would exit.
Oh come let us adore him!
Then there’s Mary, kneeling in adoration. She’s taking the opportunity to receive all the graces she is going to need to fulfill her role as mother of our Savior with all its joys and sufferings. With that, I’m reminded of a book I’m reading called Discernment of Spirits by Fr. Tim Gallagher. In it he discusses spiritual consolations (when we feel God’s presence and spiritually inspired) and spiritual desolation (when we feel God is afar off and maybe we lack the desire to pray or participate in any form of spiritual routine).
We all experience both consolation and desolation at various times in our lives. Fr. Tim, through his interpretation of St. Ignatius’ rules, suggests that in times of spiritual consolation we should build up reserves for those times we experience desolation. I’m paraphrasing of course. For me, adoration is a perfect way to build up those reserves and receive all the graces Christ has for us.
Back to Mary. Doesn’t it make sense that she would be building up reserves from the very first moment of Jesus’ birth in order to have the strength to endure his death. The best part of this scene is Jesus with his hand raised toward Mary as if to give her the blessing she seeks in adoration! Picture him doing that for you and me!
Angels we have heard on high
Joseph sits behind Jesus. It’s almost as if he knows his “place” and role. He also seems tired or worried. While sitting alone he’s probably pondering, as any father would, what this baby has in store for him and how his life is going to change because of him. Off to the left, there’s the hand of the Angel reaching out to him. Just as in his dream, the Angel is here now to comfort, encourage, guide and protect. Yet again, Joseph is in the process of gaining understanding from heaven.
Isn’t that scene a source of encouragement for us? Although we can’t see them, there are forces at work all around us, encouraging, comforting, protecting and guiding. We can get a sense of it all if we are still like Joseph in this painting. When life gets messy, let’s keep our peace and follow Joseph’s lead – pray for guidance and understanding.
Finally, the angels and humans in the painting reminded me not only of the joy Jesus brings but also of the importance of community and the connection between heaven and Earth.
I hope you take some time to ponder this scene and share your thoughts! Merry Christmas. God bless you!
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