The Sunday Sermonette –  The Touch Divine.

     The magnificent ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo in the early fifteenth century, is regarded as one of the most famous works of art in the world. Michelangelo was considered the greatest living artist in his lifetime, and ever since then, he has been included in the pantheon of the world’s greatest artists. To understand why, consider the profound themes depicted on the Chapel ceiling.

     The multi-paneled ceiling depicts the story of Genesis—the creation of the world and humanity’s fall from grace. The intricately woven design includes several sets of figures, some clothed and some nude. But this is not nudity meant to seduce. It’s meant to reveal. All illusions of worldly power and wealth are peeled away. No rich clothing. No mansions. No titled kings or presidents. No masks to hide behind. Only the naked truth of who we are, body and soul, as seen through the eyes of Father God.

     Michelangelo painted the Spirit of God hovering over the waters. The heavens split open. The sun and moon are summoned into being. Then, there is Adam—naked, reclining, his finger reaching toward the outstretched hand of Father God. Only a millimeter of space stands between them. It is the moment when the very breath of life is about to be bestowed upon Adam. Look closely at their hands.

     Father God’s index finger is strained and stretched to its absolute limit. He reaches out with love, power, and determination. However, Adam’s finger is limp and bent at the last joint. This was not an anatomical accident by Michelangelo. It was a profound theological statement on free will. Father God is always reaching out to his creations but never forces the connection. The artist’s most famous detail isn’t the contact, but the deliberate gap between the fingers.

     In the painting, Adam represents all of humanity. He is already living but appears indecisive. To bridge that final millimeter and receive God’s touch divine, Adam must make the conscious effort to straighten his finger. Then he must choose to touch the tip of his finger to the finger of God. The space between the two fingers is an excellent illustration. It implies that Father God is always present, but it is up to you to reach for Him. Touch Him. Grasp Him. And to hold onto Him forever. He is aways right in front of you, but you, as his precious creation, must reach for Him. It is your choice.

     Joshua 24:15 states: “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This verse highlights Joshua’s personal decision to follow God. Free will is a central biblical principle. It empowers humanity to choose life. To choose to be obedient. And to choose to be faithful. It also emphasizes accountability, moral responsibility, and the importance of aligning our choices with God’s guidance.

     Michelangelo’s depiction of Adam’s finger was no mistake. But it would be a mistake on your part not to reach out and touch the finger of Father God. And receive the touch divine.

     Ponder this and go forth.