My friend gave me a small icon from the Eastern Orthodox tradition of the Christian church. It shows Jesus as Pantocrator, the ruler over everything. His right hand is gently raised in blessing and in his left, a book. The icon is certified to be made in the tradition of ancient Byzantine art. The icon is handmade by a master artist and craftsman. It is precious to me both because of its connection to the past and the friendship of the one who bestowed it upon me.
Icons are often misunderstood in our culture. They are not idols or objects of worship although they may stimulate the true worship of God. It is my understanding that one of the functions of an icon is to focus attention on the God to whom the icon points.
As I look at Jesus as Pantocrator, I am remembering that he is appointed by the Heavenly Father as ruler over all rulers and kings and over all created things. Beyond the gentle teacher and healer of Galilee, he is the sovereign son of the Father who has the whole creation in His care -- even the smallest parts of the creation, creatures like me. His hand of blessing is always over us, his priceless teachings guide us, his loving presence sustains us. He is truly Lord of all. He is our Lord.