The Baptism of Christ

Piero della Francesca (c. 1415–1492) — c. 1448–1450 · Tempera on panel · National Gallery, London

“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:” — Matthew 3:16 (KJV)

About

Piero della Francesca's Baptism (about 1448–1450, National Gallery) is a miracle of stillness: Christ stands in the Jordan — the water a transparent film around His ankles — John pours from a bowl, angels hold His clothes, and behind, another man bends to undress for the same water.

The Meaning

The dove, the tree, the glassy river, and Christ's body divide the picture into still geometry — heaven and earth aligned at the moment heaven opened. The man undressing behind says the rite was not for Christ's cleansing but for ours: He stepped first into water He would command for all believers.

For Us Today

Follow Christ through the waters: baptism is where the believer publicly goes down into the old life's grave and comes up to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). If you have believed and never been baptized, this picture is your invitation.

Image: Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons — the file’s page. Tap the picture to open the full-size original there.