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In case you missed first week's post, which explains Visio Divina in more detail, you can find it here.

The final installation in our Advent Visio Divina series is The Adoration of the Shepherds, by Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn. The play on light in this image is both warm and hopeful. 

From the website Art and the Bible:

"This work is linked to Luke 2:16... [and] is based on the version Rembrandt painted earlier in 1646 for stadtholder Frederik Hendrik of the Dutch Republic. Two shepherds kneel in front of the newborn child. Note that the light coming from the child is much stronger than the light from the lamp. The use of the light gives the scene a great sense of intimacy. The quick, rough brushstrokes, the chatting bystanders and the kid playing with the dog make the atmosphere domestic and informal."

In case you missed first week's post, which explains Visio Divina in more detail, you can find it here.

1. Divine Seeing: gaze at the whole image. Notice your breathing; take a deep breath. Take in the image, giving space and time for it to speak to you.

2. Reflection: notice what the image brings forward for you, or how it connects with the theme of Christ. A few questions you could use to reflect: How do you feel looking at the image? Where is your eye drawn? If you were in the image, where would you place yourself? Does a name for God arise for you from this image?

3. Prayer: with or without words, move your thoughts to a conversation with God.

4. Rest: return to your breathing. Pause, rest, and receive.

5. Expression & Action: journal, speak out loud, or share with a friend what has come up for you through this practice. What action might come out of your time with this image?