Why Stand Gazing
August 25th 2004
Dear Friends,
Holidays are always an opportunity to see different things, and to see things differently. The influence of Leonardo da Vinci is unavoidable in northern
Italy in design, technology, commerce and his portrayal of faith through Art.
His ability to see things differently was his genius.
Inspired by the sheerness of the mountains and tranquillity of the lakes, thoughts of tectonic plates and glacial movement could not have seemed more facile. Gazing at Cathedral ceiling, its parabolic arches, pillars and vast walls, my exposure to science prompted me to think of the physics and maths behind the architecture. But who thinks like a scientist in revered space?
As the Psalmist wrote: When I consider Your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? (Ps 8:3)
The art captured my gaze: masterpieces portraying apostles; well-rounded Madonnas and cherubs; the crucified, the risen and the ascended Christ; images of the second coming of Jesus. There were depictions of saints whose lives were deemed worthy by Church fathers. Yet in every case their eyes spoke of mystery. And the value of mystery took on new meaning!
How many of us take pride in our unfortunate ability to neuter mystery with derived dogma? How many go into battle to defend beliefs and perceptions of ‘truth’ when, despite our efforts, ‘deep truth’ remains a mystery? The genius of the artist is to create that sense of mystery!
I trust that you too have found the opportunity for reflection, enjoying new perceptions and maybe contentment in the humble recognition of our, sometimes feeble, utilitarianism in the face of God’s magnificent and eternal mysteries.
Thank you once again for the mystery of your unwavering commitment and service to our Lord.
Yours sincerely
Victor Pilmoor
Treasurer
“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”
Acts 1:11 (NLT)