Gospel in Art: Feast of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

Christ embracing Saint Bernard, by Francisco Ribalta, painted 1625 - 1627 © Prado Museum, Madrid

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 20 August 2024
Matthew 19:23-30

Jesus said to his disciples, 'I tell you solemnly, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Yes, I tell you again, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.' When the disciples heard this they were astonished. 'Who can be saved, then?' they said. Jesus gazed at them. 'For men' he told them 'this is impossible; for God everything is possible.'

Then Peter spoke. 'What about us?' he said to him 'We have left everything and followed you. What are we to have, then?' Jesus said to him, 'I tell you solemnly, when all is made new and the Son of Man sits on his throne of glory, you will yourselves sit on twelve thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children or land for the sake of my name will be repaid a hundred times over, and also inherit eternal life.

'Many who are first will be last, and the last, first.'

Reflection on the painting

Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Born in 1090, Bernard spent his early years near Dijon, France. At the age of 22 he joined the Cistercians, bringing with him a splendid education and a fervent passion for his faith. His zeal was so compelling that he persuaded his brothers, uncle, and many friends to join him at the abbey. Bernard initially entered the abbey at Citeaux. However, just three years later, he was sent with 12 other monks to establish a new monastery in the Diocese of Champagne. This monastery became known as Clairvaux - the Valley of Light. Bernard served as the abbot of Clairvaux for the remainder of his life. His leadership and charisma attracted numerous followers, significantly expanding the Cistercian order. His influence extended beyond the monastery as he became a key advisor to popes, a mediator in political disputes, and a fervent preacher of the Second Crusade. Bernard's theological writings, particularly on the love of God, humility, and the Virgin Mary, have left a lasting impact. Bernard's writings and sermons helped shape medieval theology.

I remember distinctly seeing today's painting for the first time, some ten years ago, at the Prado Museum in Madrid. It made a deep impression on me. The painting depicts a mystical vision of Saint Bernard, experiencing an intimate encounter with Christ. Jesus is depicted with a gentle and compassionate expression, tenderly embracing Saint Bernard. Jesus' arms are lifted from the crucifix to wrap his arms around Bernard, whilst his feet are still nailed to the cross. The embrace symbolises the intimate relationship between the believer and the divine. The background of the painting is dark and subdued, drawing the viewer's attention to the central figures and conveying the mystical.

I will leave you with this short prayer by Saint Bernard: "May I never forget that You, my divine Redeemer, died for me; may I die to all that is not You, that hereafter I may live eternally with You. Amen".

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-19-23-30-2024/