Several years ago, I had the privilege of visiting the Sistine Chapel and seeing the famous frescoes painted by many Florentine Renaissance masters.
The most famous artworks in the Chapel are the frescoes by Michelangelo on the ceiling and the west wall behind the altar. These two gigantic masterpieces are among the most significant achievements of Western painting.
My Mum had mentioned to me that she had also visited the chapel years ago and she said how amazed she had been by the artwork and skill of the artists. However, on re-visiting after some restoration work had been completed on the frescoes, she remarked on the difference the cleaning process had made.
The removal of centuries of dirt and soot which had covered the ceiling and walls had revealed long-forgotten vibrant colours and hidden beauty, astounding both the modern art world and the general viewing public.
The restoration of the artwork in the Chapel reminds me of what can happen in all of us. We are created spectacular, beautiful and in God’s image. Then life’s challenges and some of our experiences and circumstances accumulate like grime on our souls, essentially muting our colour and vibrancy and hiding the fullness of who we are.
The Sistine Chapel is renowned for its beauty and artistry, even with all the soot and grime. But what a difference and sight to behold it is since the cleaning work has been completed. Likewise, you are amazing just how you are, but you are also worth the time and effort to ensure you are not hiding the most brilliant version of yourself.
It’s why it’s essential to check on whether you have been muted somehow and need Jesus to wash away the grime of parts of your journey. It doesn’t necessarily have to be anything traumatic for life to effectively mute you, our experiences, disappointments and just the load of pursuing our goals leaves its residue and needs to be washed off, much like when Jesus washed the disciple’s feet. (John 13:1–17)
Today I encourage you to invite Jesus to wash away the residue of travelling through some parts of your life so that everyone can see and be thankful for the fullness and brilliance of who you are. He says you are worth it and far more valuable than any famous piece of art, so why not choose to take some steps with Jesus towards restoration and cleansing and ensure that you are been seen for who you truly are.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Prayer: Lord, would you please wash away any residue of the things I experience and have been through so that I can live life in technicolour. Thank you that you restore my soul today. In Jesus name Amen.
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