Scripture
Isaiah 63:1-6 (ESV)
”Who is this who comes from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bozrah, he who is splendid in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength? “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” Why is your apparel red, and your garments like his who treads in the winepress? “I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the peoples no one was with me; I trod them in my anger and trampled them in my wrath; their lifeblood spattered on my garments, and stained all my apparel. For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and my year of redemption had come. I looked, but there was no one to help; I was appalled, but there was no one to uphold; so my own arm brought me salvation, and my wrath upheld me. I trampled down the peoples in my anger; I made them drunk in my wrath, and I poured out their lifeblood on the earth.”
AI Prompt
A cinematic image of a Middle Eastern figure returning from battle, with the ruined and smoldering city more distant in the background. The scene emphasizes the figure's journey, with his blood-red stained clothing and near-silhouette form against a dramatic sky. He walks on a dusty road, symbolizing resilience. The background features the smoldering remains of an ancient city, placed further away, adding a sense of scale and the impact of the battle. The figure's posture is resolute and confident, capturing the essence of a cinematic hero shot in a landscape marked by conflict and survival.
Process/Reflection
The Lord's deliverance of his people involves not only his mercy toward them, but his wrath upon those who hate his people. I wanted this image to have a very "John Wick" feel. The Lord's salvation and vengeance go hand in hand--and in each aspect the Lord always acts alone. He doesn't need or want our help. He is able to accomplish all of his purposes by his own power. We see this come together vividly in the cross--where God alone acts to pour out the complete measure of his wrath upon sin while simultaneously acting alone to show us mercy and accomplish our salvation.