Day 49 - What can I give Him?

Almond Blossom by Vincent Van Gogh, Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam (Vincent van Gogh Foundation)

Vincent probably crouched down, or possibly even lay on his back, as he painted these almond blossoms. Only part of the tree is visible, allowing us to focus on the painstaking detail he gave to each branch and petal set against a deep blue Provencal sky. Even the precision with which he painted the sky is striking; different shades of blue to heighten the impact of the blossom. Well over a century after it was painted, the rich colours are as vibrant and striking as ever.

As you read this, we will be approaching the shortest day and longest night of the year. Any bright colours and illuminations are likely to be from Christmas decorations or artificial lights in homes and on High Streets. As we close our doors, draw our curtains and put up the heating, this image from a spring day in the south of France may seem an unusual choice for this reflection. But I hope it isn’t.

Flowers, plants and nature in general were subjects from which Van Gogh frequently drew inspiration throughout his life. And this painting, done shortly before his death in 1890, was particularly important to him. Vincent was very close to his brother (and occasional benefactor) Theo. When Theo’s wife Jo gave birth to their first (and only) child, who they named Vincent in honour of his uncle, Van Gogh painted this as a present for his nephew. It could not have been a more appropriate or meaningful gift. Just as the delicate buds announce the arrival of spring, so the birth of a child brings hope and the promise of new life. The sheer joy of the image, particularly when seen against the stress and mental health issues from which Van Gogh suffered throughout his life, only adds to its poignancy.

What better gift could a poor artist give to his beloved nephew.

The message, symbolism and joy of the almond blossom remain as relevant and timely for us today as we approach this Christmastime, as they did for Van Gogh 135 years ago. And the picture challenges us to ask ourselves what gift we can give the baby who’s birth we will be celebrating over the next few days.

Each of us will be approaching Christmas differently. Many will be overtaken by the busyness and bustle of Christmas preparations. All of us will be carrying the joys, sorrows and baggage of Christmases past. We may be facing the days ahead with excitement, anticipation, trepidation or even fear. Wherever we are, let us try to find a moment to pause and to listen. Let us ponder the hope and promise of new life that Christmas brings. And let us think what gift we can bring the Christ child.

Maybe Christina Rossetti had the answer in the beautiful last verse of a poem which has become a much-loved Christmas hymn.

What can I give Him,

Poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd

I would bring a lamb,

If I were a wise man

I would do my part,

Yet what I can I give Him,

Give my heart.

Philip Clarke