In the historic center of Rome you’re within blocks of it almost at all times, so sometimes it’s hard not to heed its call. Sure enough, before you know it you’re in the darkness and silence of San Luigi dei Francesi once more, hurrying over to the farthest chapel on the left, hair beginning to stand up on your neck once again.

Ignore the life-size The Martyrdom and The Inspiration of Saint Matthew, both also by Caravaggio, both also located in the 12 x 12 foot space of the Contarelli chapel. Failure to do so will result in art-awe overload. Instead, focus on the left wall.

Jesus saw a man sitting at the tax office, called Matthew, and said to him, “Follow me.” And Matthew rose and followed Him. That’s about it as far as the New Testament goes (Matthew: 9-9). Caravaggio, baroque maverick, tormented artist, couldn’t just leave it at that. Here’s his version . .

It is a dark world (room) and a tedious life (counting coins), but a window (notice how it is a cross) permits The Light to enter. A young Jesus (barefoot, therefore even more otherworldly) appears out of the shadows and effortlessly calls Matthew (except that pointing arm is most definitely NOT a request). Matthew is a touch slow, so Jesus skewers him with a spear of divine light, Matthew finally raises his head (“Wha . . what’s going on?”) and like all humans in the presence of the divine he only manages a dumbfounded “Who, me?” Some will see the light and some won’t.

You head back out onto the busy streets of Rome, happy to have been called once more.