He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Matthew 28: 6
Richard Bavin, The empty tomb from the Methodist Modern Art Collection © TMCP, used with permission. www.methodist.org.uk/artcollection
This is a captivating piece of art, with a depth of inviting colours. The painting places the viewer at eye level within the tomb, moments after Jesus has walked out into the garden in the warm light of early morning (1). No body. No walking figure in sight but clearly Jesus has walked! To walk is to leave a space. I was here and now I am not. What kind of space do I leave behind me?
In Richard Bavin’s picture is peace, and a large feeling of presence. There is also a sense of intent, of having been here solidly and moved on solidly; hints of Rumi’s Guest House here perhaps? What trail do I leave? Ragged edges after fleeing conversation, a litany of annoyances and grievances, gifts of graciousness, pockets of encouragement? We don’t see Christ’s physical body now but know what he has left behind and carries forward, by the Spirit: grace, joy, love.
The spiritual life is marked by descent and resurrection and this image captures both simultaneously. It reflects Jesus’ life and life itself respectfully. As with the empty cross so too the empty tomb.
It is this great absence
that is like a presence, that compels
me
from the Absence by RS Thomas
(1) Seeing the spiritual. A Guide to the Methodist Modern Art Collection