Gospel in Art: Alas for you Pharisees who like taking the seats of honour

The Academy Award of Merit, (c) conceived by Cedric Gibbons, chief art director at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, sculpted by George Stanley

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 16 October 2024
Luke 11:42-46

The Lord said to the Pharisees: 'Alas for you Pharisees! You who pay your tithe of mint and rue and all sorts of garden herbs and overlook justice and the love of God! These you should have practised, without leaving the others undone. Alas for you Pharisees who like taking the seats of honour in the synagogues and being greeted obsequiously in the market squares! Alas for you, because you are like the unmarked tombs that men walk on without knowing it!

A lawyer then spoke up. 'Master,' he said 'when you speak like this you insult us too.'

'Alas for you lawyers also,' he replied 'because you load on men burdens that are unendurable, burdens that you yourselves do not move a finger to lift.'

Reflection on the Oscar Statuette

The Oscar statuette is arguably one of the most recognisable sculptures in the world. Shortly after the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded in 1927, discussions began on how best to honour outstanding achievements in filmmaking. The idea of a small trophy to be awarded to winners took shape. MGM art director Cedric Gibbons designed a statuette of a knight standing on a reel of film, gripping a crusader's sword. The Academy then commissioned Los Angeles sculptor George Stanley (1903-1970) to bring the design to life as a three-dimensional sculpture, and so the iconic Oscar statuette was born. Since then, over 3,000 have been awarded. The film reel on which the knight stands includes five segments, representing the five original branches of the Academy: actors, directors, producers, technicians, and writers. It was designed as a tribute to honour one's peers in the film industry.

It is natural to seek recognition from our peers. Whether we are academics, teachers, doctors, nurses, lawyers, or work in any other field, few things are as rewarding as being acknowledged and applauded by our colleagues for a job well done. However, in today's reading, Jesus offers a warning: "Beware!" He reminds us that our lives should be lived in a way that honours God and others, not in pursuit of honour from our peers, as the Pharisees did. Our ultimate goal should be to live with humility and a heart focused on service, not on seeking accolades.

For many years the statuettes were cast in bronze, with 24-karat gold plating. During World War II the statuettes were made of plaster because of metal shortages. They are now made of gold-plated britannium. The design, however, has remained unchanged, with the exception of the pedestal base, the height of which was increased in 1945. The statuette stands 13.5 inches (34.3 cm) tall and weighs 3.8 kg.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-11-42-46-2024/