The warm light of the setting sun reflects upon the water, stretching toward the figures in golden hues. It is more than just light—it is a reflection from Heaven itself, mirroring the peace, hope, and love Christ offers to all. The positioning of this light is no coincidence; it extends from the sky, through Christ’s outstretched hand, and onto the old man before Him, as if Heaven’s radiance is being placed directly into his grasp.

Christ is seated, lower than the weary traveler before Him, an intentional portrayal of His willingness to descend below all things, to meet us where we are. He does not merely call to us from above—He comes down, kneels beside us, and offers His light personally, intimately. This is the nature of His ministry: to lift, to heal, to give freely.

The old man, worn and weathered by time, represents the universal human condition—tired, burdened, perhaps poor in body and spirit. Yet already, light is beginning to touch his face. His countenance, once shadowed, is slowly illuminated as he receives the Savior’s gift. He does not take it by force, nor is it imposed upon him. Instead, it is gently given, freely offered, waiting to be received.

The fishing boats and village in the background whisper of another calling—that of the disciples, who were once fishermen before being invited to become fishers of men. Just as the old man now receives Christ’s peace, so too are we called to take what we have been given and share it with others.

This is the heart of the Savior’s message—He is the Light of the world, and that Light is a gift. It does not come from earthly sources, nor does it flicker or fade with time. It is Heaven’s reflection, placed gently into our hands and hearts, if we are willing to receive it.

by Greg Olsen