And the Truth Shall Make You Free
2021
Jesus taught his disciples, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) and…”Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32). It’s from this scripture that this new painting takes its title: “AND THE TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE”
In this piece, the joyful image of Jesus symbolizes the Truth; the truth of one who understands and lives with an awareness of our own divine nature and oneness with our source.
Resting and stationary on their bases, the powerful columns represent a foundation and support for the formal structure of our faith. The resulting teachings and organizations, like the flutes of the columns, point us upward. Columns are designed to support that which is above and make higher levels possible. Paradoxically those columns can also form a perimeter that may at times confine us spiritually if we turn those supporting principles into rigid dogmas and conclusions. When that happens, the elegant fluting intended to lift our gaze and add beauty, can instead subtly morph into prison bars which may restrict our spiritual growth and understanding.
The dove released by the figure of Jesus and taking flight represents the freedom that true understanding offers us. To understand as Christ does, that the Kingdom of Heaven is within each of us, is to experience a liberation that transcends this egoic world. We can soar above fear, judgment, and misunderstanding. Our spiritual wings will enable us to enjoy the freedom that accompanies abiding peace, true happiness, and enlightened wisdom. Truly, the truth will make us free!
by Greg Olsen