Jesus, raising his right hand in blessing, is found at the top of many windows at Chartres, including the window dedicated to the life of Mary. The more I remember that God is always present, blessing, the easier it is to see the beauty around me, to have hope, and to reach back in love.
My Prayer:
Like the people in this window, I lift my hands and heart to You.
Scriptural Touchstones:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:3-10 (NRSV)
Invitation To Pray:
Close your eyes. With your imagination and heart see Jesus reaching out to you with love and blessing.
What prayers are emerging in your body, mind, heart, and imagination? Pray them now.
Photos:
Jesus blessing at the top of the Life of the Virgin Window (1217-1220) in the south choir ambulatory at the Chartres Cathedral in France.
Other Posts in This Series:
Life of Mary (1): Mary’s Birth
Life of Mary (2) Mary’s First Bath
Life of Mary (3): Willing
Life of Mary (4): The Word
Life of Mary (5): Surprise!
Life of Mary (6): Wedding
Life of Mary (7): Yes
Life of Mary (8): Friendship
The Nativity: Animal Companions
Life of Mary (9): Announcement to the Shepherds
Life of Mary (10): The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
Life of Mary (11): Fear
Life of Mary (12): Caught in the Middle
Life of Mary (13): Looking Carefully
Life of Mary (14): What Makes Life Bearable
Life of Mary (15): Horror (Massacre of the Innocents)