This is a picture by Sally Mann, titled Picnic. It is part of a collection titled Immediate Family which has brought Mann much critical attention. In this and other photos in the collection, Mann uses her own children as the subjects in view. They are often portrayed in natural environments, nude and exposed to the world. The tone of these pictures is usually dark. The images contemplate death, sexuality and insecurity. Mann has received much controversial reception regarding these photos. But she simply considers them depictions of childhood in its many forms. She has also received much acclaim. For me, this image represents the multi-dimensions of God, specifically in regards to His presence. The burning in the background is indeed reminiscent of the burning bush which appeared to Moses, but I don't so much take it to mean that God is precisely in that area. Instead I see it more as just one type of manifestation of God. What I mean is that God is always present among those who believe, but every now and then He manifests Himself more concretely to make Himself more immediately sensed. In this picture, the children are going about their business when God suddenly makes Himself immediately present. The children turn from what they are doing to that which cannot be ignored. Yes, God is in the burning bush, but just for a moment. He is always amongst those who believe.
This image is true because it is analogous to God's manifestations. God appears as a burning bush because it is a captivating figure. It is very immediate. It won't last for long. When it occurs, we are urged to take notice and beware. Our proximity should be considered. If we are too close we will be singed; too far, and we will not know exactly what we are looking at. Our simplicity as children before God is also depicted. What we busy ourselves with is no match for who God is. His demands are undeniable. Though He is always present, we only really pay attention when He is immediately present.
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