Mary Comforts Eve

Sometimes a picture conveys far more than words. 

Mary Comforts Eve is one of my favorite works of art. The crayon and pencil drawing was created by a nun from the Cistercian Sisters of the Mississippi Abbey. It portrays both what was lost in Eden—and the promise of Jesus to make all things new.  

As you take in this imaginary scene, notice the regret in Eve’s face. The tenderness in Mary’s gaze. To me, Eve’s hair symbolizes the bark of a tree she wishes she had never chosen. Eve’s hand on Mary’s pregnant belly signifies the hope found in Jesus, the new Adam (see Romans 5:12-19 and 1 Corinthians 15:47).  

Don’t miss Mary’s heel on the serpent’s head. It hints at how Jesus would one day defeat the enemy and restore all that was lost: From now on you and the woman will be enemies, as will your offspring and hers. You will strike his heel, but he will crush your head. (Genesis 3:15 TLB) 

May the awe and beauty of Christmas stir your heart with fresh wonder. As it did for Mary that very first Christmas: Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart and often thought about them. (Luke 2:10 TLB)

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