For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. –Matthew 6:14-15
Leonardo da Vinci painted one of the greatest masterpieces in the history of the world. The work of art is called The Last Supper. Few people know the story behind the creation of this famous painting.
Da Vinci had an enemy who was also a painter. Right before da Vinci began to paint the picture of Jesus with His disciples, he had a bitter argument with his enemy. When da Vinci painted the face of Judas Iscariot, he used the face of his enemy as a reference so that his enemy would be present for ages as the man who betrayed Jesus. While painting the picture, da Vinci took delight in knowing that others would actually notice the face of his enemy on Judas.
He continued painting the faces of the other disciples and often tried to paint the face of Jesus, but he could not make any progress. Da Vinci was frustrated and confused. In time, he realized what was wrong. His hatred for the other painter was holding him back from finishing the face of Jesus. After making peace with his fellow painter and repainting the face of Judas, he was able to paint the face of Jesus and complete his masterpiece.*
Is there a broken relationship in your life that needs mending? Pray that God will give you courage to take the next step toward reconciliation.
GOING DEEPER:
1. What was the lesson Leonardo da Vinci learned?
2. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive to make peace with God and that person?
FURTHER READING:
Psalm 130:1-6
* “Leonardo da Vinci,” Story of Love.