I saw this sculpture at the art museum last weekend and I keep coming back to this photo of it. This piece made me stop and stare for the longest time. Have you ever seen Jesus portrayed as a joyful baby? Or Mary gazing at him with the love a real mom has for her toddler and not a compliant woman staring in awe at God’s son? Have they ever seemed to have actual emotions before? 

I love ancient religious artwork. It’s gorgeous and moving. But Jesus and the holy family often seem so…stoic. Wise. Profound. Holy. But not joyful, playful, or even relatable. 

Somehow this sculpture reminded me that Jesus and Mary were actual human beings in a way I’ve never thought about them. And it has made this Holy Week feel very different.

That’s some powerful stuff. Isn’t art AMAZING.