Pictures of Jesus: Light of the World

Sunday school classrooms often display familiar paintings of Jesus knocking on a door, representing the Revelation 3:20 promise that He will enter the life of anyone who invites Him in. In each case, the door has no outside handle, pointing to the need for each individual to welcome the Lord willingly.

The Light of the World, by pre-Raphaelite British painter William Holman Hunt (1827-1910), is one of the more famous depictions of this concept. Tellingly, Hunt painted the door with vines growing all over it, indicating the portal has long remained closed tightly. But Jesus still knocks.

The Savior, still wearing the crown of thorns from His crucifixion, holds a glowing lantern that echoes the light of His halo. The scene around Him is dark, except for the soft, warm light that He brings.

Clearly, this is the risen Christ, who urges the one inside for entry.

Light of the World and Lord of All, Jesus is a gentleman. He will not pick the lock, break the hinges, or pound down the door. He awaits an invitation.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the Light of the World. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NIV)

What a bright and bold and brilliant promise!

Sometimes a song sticks with me, especially when it contains profound biblical truth. Here’s one such song: “Here I Am To Worship (Light of the World),” written and sung by Michael W. Smith.

The opening lines address Jesus, the Light of the World.

“Light of the world, You stepped down into darkness. Opened my eyes, let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore you – hope of a life spent with You.”

The Light of the World

by William Holman Hunt

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The Scripture memory tips series is ongoing, but the April A to Z Blogging Challenge has started, and Heart of a Ready Writer is participating again this year. Watch for the Bible memory series posts, which may be interspersed with the Pictures of Jesus series during the month of April.

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