It’s easy to think that we’d be the ones defending our Lord.
That we’d never run, never betray, never stay silent.
But in this painting, Caravaggio reminds us why we’re the ones shouting “crucify him”
As our eyes are drawn to the soldier tightening his grip around our Lord’s throat—
we notice something else.That most glaring light source in this entire painting reflects right back onto ourselves.
Caravaggio paints himself into the scene.
Not as a hero or a villain.
But as an onlooker, quietly holding a lantern,
but quite literally lighting the path for betrayal.
He reminds us, that often, the greatest evil happens,
mot always through action,
but through enabling silence
Even the disciple who runs cannot escape the story.
His crimson cloak bleeds into the shadows,
foreshadowing the suffering to come.
And as for our Lord
He recoils, not in rage, but in sorrow.
His hands shaped like a heart.
And even though they can’t see it,
we’re reminded that the love of God extends to all
Even to the ones who betray Him.
So this Holy Week,
As we recall the Passion and cry, “Crucify Him!” —
Don’t flinch.
Because that line was truly, written for us.
