- Ernst Barlach - Blessed are the merciful  in connection with Luke 10:30-37 (But two passed by on the other side) (picture and text meditation)

Suggestions for the picture meditation:

The more we look at this picture the more alive it becomes for us and the more clearly we hear, without words, its language.

Two men encounter us in the picture who are as different as it is possible to be.  The clothing and posture of both demonstrate their condition clearly.  The one is disorderly and rumpled with worn out clothing, the muscles of the arm carefully replace the leg . . Can he still hold his head upright?...How might this person have looked before the other one came?...

In contrast, the other figure is depicted with simple clear lines.  The figure kneels - at times we also need to kneel before a person!   The bright, light garment is like a wrapper opening the self to the other ...This person is ready to enter into relationship with the other...

When we open our heart to the inner dynamic of this drawing, it takes us along until we become  the "vessel" which is formed by the arms of the bright figure.  This creates a space in which both faces look at each other.  The bright form looks into the dark form so that the dark form can look at the light... Supporting hands are necessary for this...

It appears that the one helping perceives the face of the injured as the only important one. . Is he seeking the face of a "human being" beneath the grief, suffering, doubt and bitterness?. . A face created "in God's image"?...

"Where are you?" might be a  question this picture asks of us"... and where is your sister or brother?"
 

- Luke  16:19-31 (Lazarus  outside the gate)