"The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven." (Hebrews 1:3)
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This painting powerfully symbolizes the grand narrative of redemption and divine monarchy, portraying Jesus as He extends His scepter from His heavenly throne. His scepter, a symbol of the ultimate authority and the unyielding power of resurrection, points toward the earth with majesty and grace. Upon this scepter, a Monarch butterfly alights—a representation of God's Kingdom Reign, embodying the transformative journey from life, through death, to glorious rebirth, and reflecting the unbroken cycle of life that He oversees.
The artist takes symbolic liberty by adorning the sceptre with a rose at the top, representing the Rose of Sharon, a title ascribed to Jesus in Song of Songs 2:1, “I am the rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.” This floral symbol harmonizes with the themes of creation and life found in the Genesis narrative.
The ethereal clouds in the background suggest the heavenly realms, a vast and timeless space where divine sovereignty reigns supreme. Jesus’ robe flows like the eternal river of life, its folds whispering of purity, tranquility, and the peace that passes all understanding. His hand’s firm grip on the scepter is both a declaration and an assurance—His rule is compassionate, His judgement righteous.
In poetic harmony with the imagery, scriptures resonate with the scene: "The LORD sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies!" (Psalm 110:2), a testament to His power that extends from the throne in Zion, commanding authority over all that opposes. And as Isaiah proclaimed, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder... Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end..." (Isaiah 9:6-7), the painting becomes a visual anthem to the child who embodies the fullness of God’s wisdom and strength, Jesus Christ the Messiah.
He is the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the promised ruler who once walked with humanity and whose return is eagerly awaited to restore all creation to its intended glory. His scepter is not just an emblem of His kingship but also an extension of His promise to His heirs—those who, through faith, partake in His authority and everlasting peace as sons and daughters.
The art blends both the gentleness and might of Jesus' character—the beauty and fragrance of His presence as a faithful husband to His bride, and the unwavering strength as ruler and divine judge. The contrasts within the painting remind us of the duality of Jesus' nature: He is both the sacrificial Lamb and the reigning Sovereign.
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