Listen
Read
Luke 23: 39-43 nrsv
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him
and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But
the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are
under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have
been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our
deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus,
remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied, “Truly
I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
Look
Observe the visual qualities of the image: line, shape, movement,
and texture. How do the visual elements connect to the scripture
text? What emotions emerge for you as you observe the art?
Reflect
“While speaking to the good thief, I imagine Jesus’ hand outstretched
beneath the brilliant sun radiating oranges, reds, and yellows. It takes
great strength to find beauty in the midst of such darkness and pain.
What more can he do other than offer another hope and light on their
journey? Jesus’ ministry on earth was about bringing the Kingdom of
God into the here and now. He continues his ministry in his last moments
by offering hope to the good thief. He assures him that they will be
together beyond the pain, beyond the ceasing of their breath. The
Kingdom of God is near—so close he can almost reach out and touch it.”
—Artist Lauren Wright Pittman
Pray
May I always strive to find, acknowledge, reflect, and create beauty in
this world. Amen.