Light of the World by biblical artist Keith Goodson depicts the infant Jesus with Mary and Joseph in the context of eternity.

Standing at a massive 12 feet high by 36 feet wide, this breathtaking oil-on-canvas fine art is essentially scripture in color since every image represents a different passage of the Bible. The initial section of scripture that set the artist's vision ablaze was Isaiah 63-64, in which the coming of Christ is prophesied; for "His birth is the moment that all prophetic words point toward," said Goodson.

Antiquity meets the present day as several contemporary figures including a soldier, a child, and a musician are placed next to shepherds, wise men, and worshippers on pilgrimage to the manger. Also featured are images of biblical figures such as David, John the Baptist, and Isaiah. However, the most moving part of the painting is the figure of Joseph, whose eyes and outstretched hand holding a small flame appear to follow viewers no matter their vantage point, offering them a personal experience of the light of the world. An image rendering the nations of the world against the Lion of the Tribe of Judah backs this timeless scene while the angel Gabriel with the heavenly hosts as described in Luke 2 look on from the heavens above.

Goodson took an updated approach to the Renaissance style for Light of the World. Melding the influence of history with a love for bright colors and his fascination with realism, the painting reflects a mix of old and new, contributing to its timeless theme. The painting is in the 15th century Renaissance style, influenced by the work of artists like Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Raphael, and Titian. "Their work," says Goodson, "was created 500 years ago but still speaks today and into eternity."

In addition to a traditional nativity scene, this painting incorporates many biblical, prophetic, and modern-day elements. Goodson expects this piece to be the first of many "sermons on canvas."

Light of the World was painted at Keith Goodson's studio in Auburndale, Florida, where he spent three and a half months, 12-14 hours a day, putting his God-inspired vision to canvas.