 The Welcome Mat is Out © 2000 Ginger Henry Geyer glazed porcelain with acrylic 13” x 20” x ½” Adaptation from Coptic relief of The Entry into Jerusalem There is a certain doormat theology that still pervades our society, especially in regard to women. That's not news. This porcelain piece is not particularly feminine, except that doormats evoke the warm image of home and hospitality, which-- let’s face it—is still mainly borne by women. The image carved in here is an awkward, cracked Jesus on a squatty donkey, flanked by two angels. Why the entry into Jerusalem? Because my research in fancy home magazines showed doormats made of plaited palm leaves. And, because on Palm Sunday we tend to confuse “Hosanna” with welcome or “Hooray!” Hosanna actually means “save us, we pray!” Welcome to Jerusalem. Holy Week begins with palm branches spread on the road like a green carpet rolled out for a hero’s entrance. Palms in antiquity represented victory and triumph. Later, they recalled the Tree of Life. At some point they became strong symbols of martyrdom. Doormats are often emblazoned with a big “Welcome!” (though I recently saw one that exclaims “Go Away!”) This one also says “SICCA PEDDES”, or “wipe your feet.” Is that to save the nice carpets inside, or does that mean cut your losses and keep moving? Matt: 10- 12-14 speaks to that sort of doorbell ringing evangelism: “As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town.” |