Pietà by Michelangelo

Inside the St. Peter's Basilica at Vatican City lies the famous work of Renaissance artist, Michelangelo titled, Pietà.

Pietà literally means "pity" in Italy.  In Merriam-Webster's definition, it is the representation of the Virgin Mary mourning over the dead body of Christ.

But when you look at the sculpture, I see no grieving or mourning---only acceptance. The carrara marble made between 1498-1499 depicts Jesus Christ after his crucifixion on the lap of his loving mother, Mary.  This tender scene looks natural and real.

Michelangelo did not want to represent his work with a "dying" Jesus but as a "communion between man and God by the sanctification through Christ."

There is a certain serenity and acceptance on the faces of Jesus and Mary.  Their fervent faith to follow God's will is something that we should all aspire.  Thy will be done.