Christ Jesus Came into the World to Save Sinners
I was completely at a loss when, in 1980, I was asked to create a completely unique and original work of art for a Billy Graham Christmas television special. Mr. Graham wanted me to create an exclusive rendering of Mary and Baby Jesus that had never been done before. I was honored, but wondered what I could do differently than the many artists who had gone before me.
As I thought about the task, I kept coming back to Matthew 1:21 which says, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” The purpose behind Christ’s birth is so explicitly stated there. So, this verse became my inspiration—I would draw Mary celebrating her baby’s birth but include an artistic clue that would point to his purpose for being born.
The clear connection of Christ’s birth to his death is not a gloomy shadow on what otherwise would be a happy day. The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy saying, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15, ESV). Jesus was born to rescue us from our hopeless state!
With that in mind, when I sketched the composition for Mary holding the Christ Child, I wanted to convey that holy dynamic. I anchored Mary firmly to earth, making the folds of her garment become the dirt hills that lead to Calvary. In contrast, I drew the “light of heaven” resting on the Child. I wanted to emphasize him as coming from a divine realm to emphasize the mercy shown to us. Jesus did not despise the low position of coming as an infant nor the humiliation of death on the cross, and I wanted to capture both truths in this pastel-pencil rendering (yes, Mr. Graham was delighted with the originality of the drawing)!
To fully appreciate Jesus’s birth, we must always celebrate it in the context of his death and resurrection. Only as we consider the purpose of his coming does our celebration brim with joy and meaning. As you consider my drawing, I pray it prompts you to live in new awareness of God’s love for you.
– Joni Eareckson Tada
“The Nativity-Cradle to the Cross” Art Print
You can bring this beautiful print into your home to help you reflect on and celebrate the birth of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ this holiday season.
