Thinking about Him (Epilogue)

ICONS OF GOD

Icon, from the Greek word 'eikon' meaning image, is a kind of Christian art that is indispensable to the Orthodox tradition. Just as songs are capable of engaging the audio senses of the listeners, icons are capable of engaging the visual senses of the viewers, inviting the viewers to worship the person that is being imaged (if Christ is the subject) or to imitate the life of the person (if saints are the subjects).

The understanding of icon is crucial to our self-identity as well. Since we are created in the image of God, we are living icons of God. Thus, we must realize that we are responsible of engaging the visual senses of our viewers, so that when they observe our lives, they are automatically directed to the person (God) that we image.

When others see us, may they be able to see God.