In many of the Scandinavian...
Illustration
In many of the Scandinavian heritage churches of the Midwest there are altar statues of the Lord Jesus Christ, hands stretched out in love and supplication. Many of these pieces have been in place for decades. One Sunday as the new pastor prayed before an altar with one of these figures, she opened her eyes. They were at the level of the statue's feet. The Lord of all Creation, of Heaven and Earth, was represented before her in beautiful alabaster.
To her and her parishioners the statue bid them think of the visions and revelations of heaven, the glory of God in Christ. But the feet of the ancient carving were not cracked and chipped. They seemed to the pastor like the very feet of the elderly whom she served in the church.
So in that holy place, the humanity of Jesus made itself known in the brokenness of his appearance. He is like we are. Stubbed toes and all. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
-- Hedahl
To her and her parishioners the statue bid them think of the visions and revelations of heaven, the glory of God in Christ. But the feet of the ancient carving were not cracked and chipped. They seemed to the pastor like the very feet of the elderly whom she served in the church.
So in that holy place, the humanity of Jesus made itself known in the brokenness of his appearance. He is like we are. Stubbed toes and all. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
-- Hedahl
