Homeboy

This is one of a series of images taken by provocateur and photographer David LaChapelle, for I-D magazine. Jesus is my Homeboy is the title given to the images. The image above of a woman washing Jesus' feet with her tears and is evocative on a number of levels--there is definitely a certain erotic tension that the photo seems happy to play with, and of course, elements of submission. I think it works, and it happens to be an image that references this weeks Lectionary Gospel from Luke 9--a story that has had particular influence and resonance in my life. "Do you see this woman," was the challenge Jesus issued to his host, in the tale, a Pharisee, who actually, like many of us, as not able to see beyond his on labeling. What Jesus saw in this woman, and others he met, that seemed beyond the scope, the sight, of others around him, is what drew me to the Gospels in the first place. The compelling idea that it is possible to see things differently to look at the world with eyes that see beyond labels etc. is the thing I find most interesting about following some kind of religious path. I also realize that it is possible to 'see' differently through any number of other lenses--but that is a conversation for another day.

Comments

[Geoff]

yes - i've used this image as well (probably via you).

I recently saw a documentary on LaChapelle which helps me understand the other 'levels' he (at least) was attempting in the shoot... the very domestic, working class kitchen scene is even fascinating for me.

You're right about the labelling... but Jesus in a redneck's kitchen is probably more provocative in your neck of the woods than Jesus having feet washed erotically by a babe in red underwear!