The Icon of the Vatopedian Mother of God "Joy and Consolation": the meaning in which the image helps
The image of the Most Holy Theotokos has always been the closest to ordinary people who are not too versed in academic theology. This is quite understandable: the Mother of God acts as the Defender of the entire human race. Unlike the Lord, she does not punish sinners, but with infinite patience begs her Son to forgive them. But we all sin, what's there to hide! It is the icon "Joy and Consolation" that maximally reveals the essence of the Mother of God and her attitude to each of us. In her mercy, she is even able to contradict the Lord, if it is a question of good for man. The Most Holy Theotokos does not punish, but endlessly forgives us and tirelessly asks her Son to relent and not punish people for their sins.