Perspective

Dear Friend,

Peace and all good!

While I’m not an expert in art history, I do know that breakthroughs in the study of optics and measurement in early renaissance Europe led painters to adopt new methods in crafting their art. New styles emerged which included more accurate representations of perspective. Artists could now offer viewers a way to “step into” paintings in a new way.  

For me, the power of perspective also operates in the spiritual life. When, as a disciple of  Jesus Christ, I am able to place my life, along with all its problems and complexities, into proper perspective it becomes easier to step into the picture, take the next step, and make good choices about how to conduct myself. In this week’s Gospel text, as in the scriptures for the last two weeks, we see disciples and would-be followers of Jesus engaging their teacher in a way that strongly indicates that they have lost perspective, and without even knowing it.

Last week, the man who “had many possessions” was locked into a vision that limited his capacity to follow Jesus; so he turned away. The week before, Jesus admonished his disciples for their inability to take on the perspective of a child (“The Kingdom belongs to such as these.”). This week James and John seem anxious to place themselves in the center of the picture with the glory that comes from power and privilege. 

Scholars and spiritual writers have used the word “Christo-centric” to describe the way early Franciscans approached their practice of living the Gospel. Conversation with friends, prayer, and service to the poor were and are key spiritual practices. For myself, these and other tools continue to help me bring the redemptive love of Jesus back to the center of my vision.   

Gratefully,

Fr. Dan ofm, Pastor