Story Behind the Art Parable O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! - Matthew 23:37 I Would Gather Thee (Biblical) On the night before Jesus was crucified, He went to the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem with His disciples. As He sat looking down on the city and people He loved, He lamented, "... how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" - Matthew 23:37. I Would Gather Thee, A Mother´s Vigil (Modern) God still longs to gather us today under His wing. He is anxious to protect us and provide comfort amidst the ever growing storms that surround us. I painted twelve chicks, symbolic of the number of Jesus´ apostles - those who assisted Jesus in His work - and the thought that God wants to gather all of His children, but that He often does this through the love and efforts of others here on earth.