Innocence Reborn

Source: courtesy of the author
The ordinary becomes extraordinary
as little children line up
in unadulterated joy
to meet Jesus
whose welcoming gaze
draws them into a
loving, trusting intimacy.

Light streams through the windows
resting on
subdued hues of green and grey
stretched into browns
brightened by shaded orange tiles
as awkward parents stand by
in a tangle of tired thoughts.

A blend of Realism and Impressionism
splashes onto the canvas
of a relatively modern interpretation
of Scripture,
focusing on the connection
of an outstretched holy hand         
locking with a child’s fingers.

An aura of simplicity
envelops the little girl
magnetically drawn to Christ’s touch.

The scene of painted oils
invites me to shed the coat of adulthood
and emulate the young ones,
for to such as these
does the kingdom of heaven belong.

I am born once again
in new found innocence.


(Visio Divina of Fritz von Uhde’s 1884 painting, “Let the Children Come to Me” 
based on (Mark 10:13-16) in the Art Museum in Leipzig, Germany.)

Viola Athaide, a student of Theology, is actively involved in parish life, leading Bible courses, the Prayer Group, and the Ministry with Maturing Adults.

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9 Comments
  • graeme quinlan
    Posted at 04:21h, 25 November Reply

    And He reaches out to you and to me , for we are His beloved.

  • rosa scarpino
    Posted at 10:03h, 25 November Reply

    Beautiful painting and profound reflection. The little child in us wants to rest on Jesus lap like the little girl, and feel all the love and protection that only He can give.
    God bless you Viola, Rosa.

  • Sylvia Lee
    Posted at 12:22h, 25 November Reply

    Thank you for the beautiful poem, Viola.

    We are waiting … soon and very soon to be born once again in new found innocence.

  • Ornella
    Posted at 13:44h, 25 November Reply

    Much needed certainty in such uncertain times with children being the most vulnerable. Prayers for the children that they are protected and guided by our loving Jesus. Thanks so much Viola. Another “Master”peace.

  • Peter Bisson
    Posted at 14:22h, 25 November Reply

    Thank you Viola!

  • Maria Chrysant Susanto
    Posted at 06:34h, 26 November Reply

    Beautiful reflection. Thanks Viola

  • Howard Jean
    Posted at 18:52h, 26 November Reply

    Viola, once again you have touched the depths of loving hearts. Such a beautiful
    reflection makes me want to sit awhile with the Lord with no agenda. Thanks for sharing your faith. Jean H.

  • PHILIP CHIRCOP
    Posted at 03:25h, 27 November Reply

    As always well done Viola. Keep up the great work with the creative heart of a little child for whom everything is possible.

  • Lorella D'Cruz
    Posted at 18:28h, 28 November Reply

    I echo Rosa Scarpino’s comment. Well done, Viola.

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