Diego Rivera (1886-1957) remains a prominent artist of Mexico most known for his murals themed in protest and social justice issues. His compositions were often filled with symbols of industry over and against the workers who were commodified for profit. This piece is part of a mural in the main headquarters of the Secretariat of Public Education in Mexico City. It seems to strike a unique chord in the human struggle of Rivera’s work.

In this poignant work a black sky, a white city, and difficult terrain layered and sculpted in color and depth are the backdrop for a human embrace that we can actually feel. We can imagine this steadying embrace of a weary traveler. We can make faithful meaning from the “serape” robe, the “sombrero” halo, and the hint of religious architecture at the edge of our view. We can sense the blessing needed and given in the arms of both figures and the face of the one.

We cannot know what Diego Rivera meant to tell us here. We can know what Jesus commanded about love for one other. As we live our places in this scene, weary at times and strong at others, may we also live this deep embrace in each other’s arms.

In the body of work of a radical, political painter, we find this moment of most tender compassion. May this moment of love universal be our own and name once again the will and kingdom of our prayer to our Lord.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church