Divine intimacy

In many paintings, sculptures and drawings of the Last Supper you see this intimate moment where the apostle John leans over, almost embracing Jesus (this photo is the reredos in Launde's chapel, where I'm writing this right now after Midday Prayer).

It's a depiction of a moment in John's gospel where the Beloved Disciples is described as "reclining next to Jesus" and enjoying a private conversation with him. Which doesn't quite with visually when you place the figures on chairs around the table, but is a lot less strange when you remember that the custom in those days was literally to recline for a meal: to lie down on one side, propped up on an elbow, with your fellow diners either side of you like sardines in a tin - very cosy! And since most people are right handed it was usual to prop yourself in on your left elbow, meaning the person to your right was especially well positioned for a quiet, confidential chat. That's one of the reasons that being at someone's "right hand" was considered such an honour.

Lying beside Jesus like that, John simply had to lean his head back and it would be resting against Jesus' chest. He be able to hear his breathing, pick up the softest whisper, feel his heartbeat. It's an incredibly intimate scene. And the perfect image of prayer: drawing near to Christ, hearing the still, small voice, sending what's on his heart, resting in his welcoming presence. 

Something wonderful to reflect on for Valentine's Day, maybe: what divine intimacy and love look like.