Between Them and God

Here is a question I received regarding my painting One Nation Under God.  

AMAZING! While I scrolled over every image (I thought), down front, I could see some of the personalities in me, some of which I was ashamed. I did not realize until I read your commentary, and Satan was in there. I had to go back to find him, I finally did, he is almost transparent. I realized, just as we have Jesus in us, we also have Satan, no matter how faint he is. I applaud you. This made me look at my character, and see me, more clearly. Though I am not proud of some of it...

Thank you!  I like it when people personalize the painting and they find additional meaning.  Your interpretation is exactly what I hope many will consider.

Why would you have Christ be the central figure to such self righteous indignation? 

To have Christ in the center so prominently holding the Constitution makes a powerful statement.  Some would like to interpret this to mean if you’re not a Christian—get out!  My view of Christianity in regards to this painting is this:  God loves all of us.  In the painting His face is sad and He looks off into the distance as if He can see our future.  The purpose of the painting is not to say only Christians belong here.  It is to say that the Constitution is what made our country great.

Why do you judge a whole group of people by the actions of a few? Do you actually believe that Christ would approve of the such a generalization of HIS children?  

I’m not sure why you assume I am judging anyone.  The people in the bottom right corner represent those that I believe are weakening our country by not supporting the principles of the Constitution.  These figures represent a symbol of a type of person.  If there is any kind of “sin” involved, that is between them and God.

My Prayer for 911

Many of us have been thinking about the ten year anniversary of 911 that is approaching.  A stream of emotions floods my mind and heart as I remember the events that day.   We all mourned together as we saw the destruction and loss of life in the Twin Towers, but out of the ashes of that day Americans showed love and compassion and renewed patriotism towards each other.  911 was one of our country’s worst moments and yet one of our very best. 

As we remember 911 I hope we can think of it like a new Independence Day in America.  Let it be a day to remember hope, love, and our dependence on God.  May we seek to find favor and blessings from Him.

Since the mayor of New York will not allow a prayer at the 911 service which will be held, I will offer my own:

Our Father which is in Heaven,

As we remember those whom we love who have died on this hallowed ground, mothers and fathers, men and woman who gave up their lives ten years ago.  Please remember the prayers of thy people.  We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many of thy sons and daughters.  Many of which were trying to help relieve the suffering of those still inside the towers. 

We know that thou art a just God and knoweth all things.  Thou knowest the hearts of conspiring men and those who would seek to destroy our country. 

Today, as our country stands divided, wilt thou open a door to allow for Americans to see the light of liberty.  Wilt thou allow thy Spirit to enlighten the minds and hearts of the Amercican people that they may seek a path of responsibility and prudence and trust in thee in all righteousness.  Lord, bless us to remember we are One Nation Under God.

And this we pray, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen