BOOK REVIEW - THANKSGIVING: AN INVESTIGATION OF A PAULINE THEME BY DAVID W. PAO

 

Have you noticed how often the Apostle Paul refers to thanksgiving in his epistles? How does this frequent theme reflect on his theology? How is Paul's thought influenced by the Old Testament, Jewish tradition, and Greco-Roman culture?

This is the 4th book I've read in the New Studies in Biblical Theology, and thus far it's my favorite. There are 57 books in this series, written by different authors.

The other three I've read usually take a chronological look at Scripture developing the book's theme, and in the final chapter the author offers practical applications. This book takes a different approach. It breaks the theme into the past, the present, and the future, and in each section looks at the foundation in the Old Testament before examining the subject in Paul's writing.

The author assumes that the Scripture gives the application. Instead of closing the book with how to carry the ideas out, he has a chapter on the positive, upbuilding topic of ingratitude, and has an appendix comparing Paul's theology to the Greco-Roman patronage model.

I did find this book uplifting, and my hunch is that this will be the first book of the series I'll reread.

BOOK REVIEW - BLIZZARD SHOWDOWN (ALASKA K-9 UNIT PART 8 OF 8) BY SHIRLEE MCCOY

 

 Which is safer for Violet James' newborn? Being in a bunker with a survivalist family? Being in a cabin with Alaskan State Trooper Gabe Runyon and a gigantic dog named Bear? Or fleeing from a murderous ex-fiancee? Oh, I forgot - the last one was a given. (After all, this is a Love Inspired Suspense novel.)

Blizzard Showdown by Shirlee McCoy is the conclusion of an exciting and well written eight part series Alaska K-9 Unit. The first novel introduced you to pregnant Violet James fleeing the scene of a crime where a guide is shot, her best friend is left hanging off a cliff, and her fiancee and his buddy claim Violet was responsible. Additionally, the tech guru is trying to make his dying godmother's wish come true by reuniting her to her survivalist son, and the unit chief's assistant is dealing with stolen reindeer on her aunt's farm. The third of the stories was resolved in the seventh installment. The other two issues find their resolution in this novel. Is that a spoiler? Not really - you expect a happy ending in this series to each installment, let alone the full series. But have I told you how we reach that happy ending?

Another spoiler. Lance Wells, the fiance claiming Violet attacked him and the guide? He's lying. And if you had been reading the series, you'd be aware of that. But if you read the description on the back cover of this book, you'd have known that already.

I have currently read 53 Love Inspired Suspense novels. Out of those, there are only a few villains that stood above the rest, having a personality as well as being an evil, determined killer, and Lance Wells is in that category. I also found it easy to care for Violet James, as well as Gabe. And Bear? That St. Bernard is adorable.

I enjoyed all eight of the stories in this series. This one ended on a very strong note. One slight quibble is that the final "curtain call" where you're reintroduced to the main characters of the other stories seems artificial. But that's no reason to pass this octet of thrilling stories by an octet of great writers. I highly recommend this book and the full series.

BOOK REVIEW - FREE FALL (THE QUANTICO FILES BOOK 3) BY NANCY MEHL

 

Why are long haired brunettes disappearing? And is FBI behavior analyst Alex Donovan, who fits that profile, safe because of her occupation? 

"Free Fall," the third and final chapter in Nancy Mehl's The Qunatico Files trilogy, is a quick paced, nail biting story. The focus is on the serial kidnapper, but there are some interesting side stories, including one that has a brief appearance, but helps show how a behavior analyst (aka profiler) works. 

 As mentioned, this is the third part of a series. Do you need to read the previous books in the series to be able to fully enjoy this novel? Definitely. Specifically, there are a lot of references to "Dead Fall" (part 2) that reading that book would help you feel like you know what's going on (and reading "Night Fall", the first in the trilogy, definitely would give even more understanding of the story). Let me go further. If you haven't read "Night Fall," I'd highly suggest you read Mehl's previous trilogy Kaley Quinn Profiler before you get into this series (especially before reading "Night Fall.") 

It sounds like I've given a lot of reading for those who haven't read the series. Yes, but it's worth it. This is a very good psychological thriller series that I highly recommend. The lead and supporting characters are strong and fascinating, and the plot will keep you at the edge of your seat. 

 I have received a free copy of this book for my unbiased review.

GOD'S PEOPLE ARE A REMNANT, AND IT'S LARGER AND MORE DIVERSE THAN YOU SUPPOSE.

Castaways at Strand by Polish painter Franciszek Ksawery Lampi

 

 I usually agree with Dr. J. Vernon McGee and with A. W. Tozer. However, there is one point I strongly disagree with them.

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah is telling God, repeatedly, that Israel killed all God's prophets, and that he alone is left. (Never mind that a guy named Obadiah hid and fed 100 prophets.) God tells Elijah that there are 7,000 in Israel who have not bowed to Baal or kissed his image.

In listening to McGee, he comments that the 7,000 didn't do much for Elijah. (He admits in his printed notes he wasn't kind to the remnant.) Likewise, Tozer said that if the 7,000 were doing what they should be, Israel would not be in apostasy.

In the text, are these two gentlemen accurate? I don't think so. These men were faithful to God. There is no indication that they were called to anything more than that. They were presented as evidence to Elijah he wasn't alone.

Should the remnant have done more for Elijah? How could they? 1 Kings 17 states God had Elijah hide, first by a brook where he was fed by ravens, and then in Queen Jezebel's homeland eating cakes with a widow and her son. Could they have stood with Elijah at Mount Carmel? Did they need to? Nope.

Let's look at how the term "The Remnant" is used in Scripture. The KJV uses that term 89 times, 83 of those being in the Old Testament. It's used 25 times in the historical and poetic books, usually from the Hebrew word yathar, referring to a residue. In other words, we're talking about leftovers, about an excess.

If you're good at math, you'll guess that the remaining 57 times appear in the prophets, and you'll be right. Isaiah and Jeremiah use that term 16 times each. The prophets, though, are using the related words shear and sheriph. These reflect a residue, those who escaped, survivors.  Kind of like the castaways in the painting above.

So let me return to the title of today's blog. "God's people are a remnant, and it's larger and more diverse than you suppose." Who am I quoting? Myself. If someone wants to create a meme and quote me, go for it! But let's break down what I'm saying. 

First, I'm saying we're a remnant. Yes, the remnant is a numberless multitude (Rev. 7:9-17), but it's still a remnant. Leftovers. The survivors. A minority movement. 7,000 people weren't a lot. Not everyone who calls Jesus Lord will be in the kingdom (Mt. 7:21-23). 

I remember a Church of Christ radio preacher who said, "Do I believe the Church of Christ is the only ones who will be saved? No. I believe we're the only ones who have hope of being saved! One in a thousand will get in." He's echoing my point - it's not the professors but the possessors. The true church is a remnant.

My second point is that the remnant, though small, is not as small as we think it will be. If Elijah listened to Obadiah, he would have realized there was a remnant of 100, not 1 (that one being Elijah). But God revealed that remnant was 70 times larger than Obadiah's estimate. God is the one who reserves the remnant.

One controversial book I've read is The Pre-Wrath Rapture of the Church by Marv Rosenthal. There's a lot of what he said that can be questioned, but one thing he said rang true. When John saw the numberless multitude (again, Rev. 7:9-17), one of the elders asked who they were. Rosenthal pointed out that John did a lot of question asking in Revelation, but this is the only time John was asked a question. Rosenthal's interpretation is that this numberless multitude is the Church from Pentecost to the end, and showing John the end result of the small, persecuted band John lived with.

The remnant, I believe, will also include those that we're not expecting. Revelation says it will include all nations, and thus obviously all races. The Church of Christ radio preacher is probably astonished as he sees he's in heaven with a whole batch of people who aren't in the Church of Christ. Calvinists, there will be Arminians among the Remnant. God can save whoever He wants - He's not limited to your theology and biases.

So allow me to conclude that when you feel isolated, you're not alone in feeling isolated, and you're not alone as being a member of the remnant. God has reserved many you aren't aware of. Peter says the same thing in 1 Peter 5:9.

But now, I'll mark the calendar when Ignescent, a band I recently reviewed, hits Indianapolis in a couple of months on their Remnant Tour!

INTERVIEW WITH PHOTOGRAPHER JEANETTE YODER

 

Photographer Jeanette Yoder, photographed by Chad Fenner (Concert Fotos)

You may remember my interview with Angie Leyda of Always One Ministries, which puts on the Kingdom Come Festival (and if not, click here). And you may remember the great photos of the headliners and some of my favorite artists. That photographer is Jeanette Yoder, who I'm excited to interview. 

Description and Credits for below photos at the bottom of the interview. 

JR: Welcome to my blog, Jeanette. Allow me to start with asking how you came to Christ and how you became interested in photography. 

JY: I grew up in church and in a Christian home that made church a priority.  I was probably about 12 when I realized that I didn’t remember ever actually praying the “sinner’s prayer” and asking Jesus into my heart/life.  I definitely haven’t always been a “good Christian” since then and went through some pretty rebellious times in my life.  But finding a love of photography and pursuing my love of concert photography actually began to point me back in the right direction.   

As for my interest in photography, I’ve had a camera in hand of some sort or another since I was about 7 years old.  It started with a little 110 film camera, then a 35mm in junior high, and my first digital camera soon after I graduated from college.  It wasn’t until about 2010 when I got my first DSLR that I REALLY fell in love with photography. 

Soon after I bought it, I started doing some photos for some friends’ bands.  After they saw some of my photos of a friends’ band that had played a show there, I was asked by a small concert venue in Louisville if I would have any interest in being their venue photographer (although they could only afford to pay me in coffee and free concert tickets).  I became friends with Luke, the guy who ran the venue, and he and his wife encouraged me to actually start my own photography business.   And the rest, as they say is history.  My dream is to someday actually own my own studio space, but for now photography is still just a part-time gig for me (full-time I’m a high school Spanish teacher).   

JR: On your FB business page, you have a list of different cameras you use. How do you decide which to use for certain situations?

JY: Most of the gear listed there is actually lenses.  I’ve found that it’s more about choosing the right lens to achieve the look I’m going for, as well as the settings I use, than a particular camera body.  Some lenses do better in lowlight situations.  Some compress images more.  Some give me a shallower depth of field.  I do also collect some antique cameras and will still shoot film with them sometimes for personal projects, but that’s pretty infrequent.  

JR: I learned about your photography via Angie Leyda of Always 1 Ministries and your work with Kingdom Come Festival (KCF). Before I switch my focus to that event, what are some of your other photography career highlights?

JY:  Early on, I got to do some live photos of Twenty One Pilots (before they were signed to a label, when they were Regional at Best… pun intended).  Getting to work some of the smaller stages at Ichthus as a photographer in 2012.  Having Love & Death ask to use some of my photos that I did at a festival that same year as well as photographing several shows for them was another definite highlight (I had a number of friends who were big Korn fans in junior high and high school, so even though I wasn’t allowed to listen to their music when I was younger, getting to meet Brian Head Welch was a bit surreal).  But honestly, the biggest highlight has been ongoing- it’s the relationships I’ve gotten to form with people whom I may never have met if I wasn’t doing photography.   

JR: How did the blessing of working with KCF come about? What were some of your favorite moments of KCF (both as a photographer and as a fan)?

JY: In 2012, I was mostly just looking to get my name out there as a photographer.  I knew I enjoyed doing concert photography and just started searching for festivals and concerts that were within an hour or two from me.  I found KCF (only in its third year at that time), and sent a message to Jay Karp (one of the A1M/KCF co-founders), offering my photography services in exchange for stage access so that I could get the shots I wanted, along with access to food and water from hospitality so that my only cost was gas money to get there. I guess it worked because they gave me a photo pass and a hospitality wrist band.  I’ve worked/volunteered every KCF since.  Haha.

There have been so many great moments from KCF over the years.  I think in her interview (linked above), Angie Leyda referenced the “Holy Spirit Tsunami” that took place the last year that KCF was held at Foster Park in Kokomo (2014).  That definitely stands out as a favorite moment as a fan/attendee.  There’s also been what we’ve deemed “The Protest Effect,” where storms have literally dissipated, changed course, or split apart to avoid KCF on evenings that The Protest has played.  There’s also the legend that is “Tornado Tammy.”  Every year she has run the welcome tent, something happens where the tent flies away… except this year.  This year they got her a welcome trailer.  

As a photographer, most of my favorite moments have been ones where I get to capture the passion and emotion of a performance.  Well, that or when bands decide to pull shenanigans onstage, like Daniel Streety coming out dressed in a sumo suit this year. Things like that are always fun to capture on camera.   

JR: Has there been any “Such A Time As This” moment in your photography, where you know God brought you to a certain place or situation to glorify Him?

JY: Honestly, KCF has been one huge “For Such A Time As This” moment for me, year after year.  It’s an absolute honor to spend 2 full days (2 1/2 this year!) serving alongside some of the best people I know and doing it all to glorify God.  The festival exists because several people made it their mission to reach just one more person for Christ, using music as the platform to do so.  I know that working at A1M events like KCF has made a huge difference in my life, so I just want to play a small part in making that kind of difference in someone else’s life using the gifts/talents that God has given me.  Jay Karp always tell me that the festival gained credibility when I came along.  I think it would’ve even if I hadn’t come along, but I’m glad that God decided to use a little nobody from nowhere photographer to help grow a festival with a purpose.  

JR: Thank you for your time. How can we find out more about your photography and any services you have?

JY: It’s been a pleasure! You can check out my official photography page on Facebook (Jeanette Yoder Photography), follow me on instagram (@jyophoto81), and of course check out the KCF and A1M pages for some of my work.  If you have any questions, you can always get in touch with me at jyophoto@gmail.com.

Above photos from top:

1. 
   Jeanette Yoder (lower left) photographing The Protest, photographed by Katie Slater (Katie's Media).
2. Zahna (left) and Becca Sugg of Reclaim The Day, taken by Jeanette Yoder (Jeanette Yoder Photography).
3. Daniel Streeter of Bred 4 War, taken by Jeanette Yoder (Jeanette Yoder Photography).
4. LuLu English of Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh, by Jeanette Yoder (Jeanette Yoder Photography).
5. Jeanette Yoder (left), taken by Katie Slater (Katie's Media).
   

INTERVIEW WITH JUDITH MONTGOMERY OF THE JUDITH MONTGOMERY FAMILY.

 

The Judith Montgomery Family (l-r): Justin, Judith, Marold, Graham, Abby, Megan.

JR: Welcome to my blog. I'll start off with the questions I typically start off with: How did you come to Christ? How did you get interested in music? How did the group start and who's in it? And how did you come with the name for your group? (Though I think I have suspicions on the last one.)

JM: Thank you Jeffrey, for allowing us to be a part of your blog. All of us came to know Christ in our childhood and with Christian upbringing were able to strengthen our relationship with Christ. My parents and brothers traveled around in my childhood ministering at churches for revivals and camp meetings as “The Overstreet’s” so I grew up with gospel music and traveling. After marrying my husband Marold, I was a part of a couple local groups “Maranatha” and “Soul’s Harvest”. Megan used to call one of the members grandpa because we were so close. After a while, God called me into a soloist ministry under the name “Judith Montgomery”. As our kids Megan, Graham, and Justin grew, so did our ministry into a family trio “Judith Montgomery Family”. We are also eager to announce a new member of our group. Graham recently married a lovely young lady named Abby so we are happy to say our group is expanding from a trio to a mixed group. 

JR: I noticed you have a new radio single. Could you tell us about that?

JM: Yes, our new radio single is titled “Jesus Walked Through the Wall”. We heard this song from a local artist in Bloomington and fell in love with its message and tune. The life Christ lived by example on earth is so impactful in endless ways, and this song is no exception to discussing this fact. Jesus walks through spiritual walls and physical walls to speak to our hearts over 2,000 years ago and still today. 

JR: Who all are your mentors, inspirations, encouragers, etc. in the IGMA/IGMF, among the better known artists, authors/radio and TV ministers, or other people?

JM: There are so many inspiring individuals and groups that have been encouraging. First of all, my parents were a great amount support, encouragement, and guidance. The Cathedrals, The Nelons, Karen Peck, The Hoppers, and The Greenes and many others have all been inspirations to me in the gospel music industry.   

JR: Do you write any of your own songs? If so, what's the ratio with those others write? How do you decide on which songs to do? Do you have heated dinner discussions about songs or harmonies?

JM: Writing songs is a big passion of mine. It’s an outlet of words placed on my heart and in hopes that they will be a blessing to others. I’ve wrote about 2 songs per album over the years. Here in the past few years, my daughter Megan has also picked up writing songs and has shared a few on the last three projects. Song selecting takes time and it’s never hard to come up with a list. The tedious part is narrowing the list down to a select 10 for an upcoming album. We often ask each other questions involving the message of the song, it’s impact, what thoughts can come to mind in relationship to our walk with Christ as we hear it,  and finally the overall feel of the album. 

JR: What are some of the highlights of your ministry? Are there times you feel God has placed the group into a situation for, as Mordecai would say, "Such a time as this?" 

JM: Oh there are many times we have noticed this, but not generally of ourselves. We don’t often see the way our planted seed of gospel music impacts others. But there are occasions where the testimonies given from others both in service and even months after services are held give encouragement to continue carrying on. When one soul is impacted to walk with Jesus and another to not give up the fight, it’s worth it all. For example, following a homecoming service as we were tearing down, a teenage girl came to the altar to get saved so the impact is sometimes only a step away and doesn’t have to be during a service.  

JR: Thank you for your time. How can we learn what's new with you all? Any web-pages? And any concerts coming up, besides the Indiana Gospel Music Festival?

JM: We are so looking forward to the IGMF event (July 23, 2022) and seeing friends as well as meeting new ones. We have a website (Judith Montgomery Family Official Website), Facebook social connections (Judith Montgomery Family) and simply can be contacted by phone as well at 317-412-0894. We keep our events posted on our website calendar and Facebook posts to keep everyone aware for concerts in the area or trips of interest such as a three day gospel concert event called Christmas in the Smokies in Pigeon Forge, TN late November. Thank you Jeffrey, for this opportunity to share our family ministry with your followers and we appreciate you (the reader) taking the time to read a little about us. God bless and let’s chat in person at IGMF!

WAKE UP BY MEGHAN WILLIAMS (DYED4YOUART)

 PART 17 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Wake Up by Meghan Williams of Dyed4YouArt

 

My hunch is that if you asked ten Christians what it means for the church to wake up, you might get ten different answers. I wouldn't be shocked if you got twenty.  

While I'd be glad to give my thoughts as to how the church needs to awaken, I'm going to focus on this fine work of art. Of course, there's the lion representing Jesus, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:9-10; Rev. 5:5), speaking to the world, symbolized by a city.

Is this a particular city? My first thought is San Francisco, with the Golden Gate and other bridges. But is my memory correct that New York City also has one? Or is it another city or for that matter a generic city? Either way, the cities I mentioned are not known for listening to the voice of Christ. To me, the city looks unaffected by Christ's roar.

You want to know my thoughts about the church needing to wake up? Ask! I'll be glad to tell you. But what I want to hear is your thoughts about the subject. And does this picture affect you as it does to me?

Also, this is the conclusion of my series on favorite art. You can say I wanted to go out with a bang, or more likely a roar. Starting this blog, let alone the series, is based on a view that God can use the arts for His glory, including drawing the lost to Him and to edify and encourage the Church. In some cases, He can even use art by unbelievers without their knowledge.

P.S. If you'd like to read my interview with Meghan Williams (which also has "Wake Up" on the top), click here.

 

OUTSIDE THE CAMP BY GRACE CAROL BOMER

 PART 16 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Outside The Camp by Grace Carol Bomer

 My only time in an art studio (unless you count art labs in school) was in 2000 when Becky and I visited Soli Deo Gloria Studio in Ashville, NC, home of Grace Carol Bomer. One thing that impressed me was her painting "Outside The Camp," partially because I had recently memorized the passage from Hebrews 13:13: "Therefore let us go to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach." While there, I told her about one concept for a drawing I had and she told me to go for it. (22 years later, and it's still on my to-do list).

It's been a couple of weeks since I interviewed Grace for the blog. Also, her art is described in Nancy Pearcey's book Saving Leonardo. The book includes one of her paintings, "Weeping For The Wiping Of Grace" (right).

What do you think of this painting. Are there any works of art that you find a helpful adaptation of Scripture? 

For the interview, click here.

 

THE GRAIL BY KERRY JACKSON

 PART 15 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

The Grail by Kerry Jackson

 I had the honor of meeting Kerry Jackson when he and his wife Twyla were here in Indianapolis planting a church which at first met in the Art Bank (have you ever seen a baptism in an art gallery?) and later at the Indy Fringe theater. 

I also enjoy his art. There are four paintings of his I'm including in this collection. 

The title refers to my favorite, which is at the top: The Grail. To me, I can see the young man's zeal and love for Jesus, and possibly a little weariness due to his endeavor. I also see the sense of adventure. It makes

me think of one of my favorite verses, Psalm 84:5 - "Blessed is the man whose strength is in the Lord, and who has set his heart for pilgrimage."

To the left is my second favorite, titled "Can I Go?" which was on display at the Art Bank. On the other side is a completely different type of painting, dealing with human trafficking titled "Hotlanta." 

Finally, there is below a painting he did through his ministry Drawing to the Rock at Arlington Avenue Baptist Church while Becky and I attended there. You'll notice I included a link for the ministry.

What do you think of Kerry Jackson's art, especially "The Grail?" Is there any art that moves you, either to think, to smile, or to have concerns for our sinful world?

PEACEFUL BY TRISH WALTON

 PART 14 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

"Peaceful" by Trish Walton

 I'm taking a turn in this series. I am moving from artists who lived before my time to those I know personally. Three of the last four I'm featuring Becky and I have met, and the fourth is one I correspond with on-line and interviewed for this blog..

Becky and I have had the honor of knowing Richard and Trish Walton for nearly a quarter of a century. We met them when Richard became an associate pastor at Arlington Avenue Baptist Church (AABC)in '97. Richard then served at another church while Becky and I became a part of another congregation. By '04, when we returned to AABC, Richard was the pastor and Trish was the music director.

I don't remember when it was that I discovered Trish was an artist. But I was impressed. On this post are three of her works: "Peaceful" (above), "Monday Blues" (right), and "Rise Above" (which, with that title, ironically is below). 

My favorite of hers is "Peaceful." Looking at it made me realize - I do like pictures with a small subject dwarfed by the background, whether a spectacular one like "Sodom and Gomorrah" by John Martin (see July 5 blog) and with more natural settings such as Asher Brown Durand's "Kindred Spirits" (see July 13) and Trish Walton's "Peaceful."

Why other reasons do I like about "Peaceful"? I love the blues and greens used here (and also in "Monday Blues"). I find the light, cool colors refreshing.

What do you think about these paintings? Do you find more pastel cool colors more relaxing than the bright or dark colors other artists have used?

KINDRED SPIRITS BY ASHER BROWN DURAND

 PART 13 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Kindred Spirits by Asher Brown Durand

 

Most of the art I've shown up to this point is European in origin. I'm now crossing the Big Pond, as the Brits call it, and conclude with artists from the US. 

The Hudson River School of Painting was founded by Stephen Cole, and one of his students (and friends) was Asher Brown Durand (1796-1886).  Cole passed away in 1848, and another friend, poet William Cullen Bryant spoke an eulogy at his funeral. Art patron Jonathan Sturges was moved by this eulogy, so he commissioned Durand to paint a picture of Cole and Bryant, as a memorial of their friendship for the poet.

Durand for his part encouraged painters to paint landscapes out in the open, using nature as their model, as well as developing their own style, as opposed to working from sketches and imitating the European style of landscapes being allegorical. 

I've got news for you - I love this painting. Would I have it in my series if I didn't? There are two reasons why. First is the beauty of the landscape Durand painted, from the Catskill Mountains, combining the geological formations of Kaaterskill Clove with a small image of Kaaterskill Falls.

The other is that the painting of Cole (right) and Bryant moves me as well. In this case, it is a shared love of nature between the men. In my opinion, Durand did as good a job of capturing what friendship looks like as he does with the natural scenery.

What do you all think of this picture? How would you picture friendship? If someone commissioned an artist to paint a picture of you and a friend similar to "Kindred Spirits," who would be painted with you, and what would be the background?
 

 

YOUNG MARTIN LUTHER AND CAROLERS SING FOR MRS. COTTA IN EISENACH BY FERDINAND PAUWELS

 PART 12 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

Young Martin Luther and Carolers Sing For Mrs. Cotta in Eisenach by Ferdinand Pauwels

Several years ago, I looked at the works of various artists, trying to discover new favorites (both artists as well as paintings). In doing so, I discovered this painting by Ferdinand Pauwels (Belgian, 1830-1904). 

When I first saw this picture, I was wondering which of the boys was Luther: the dark haired boy who was singing facing Mrs. Cotta or the one on the right who seemed a little more of a free spirit. So I looked up information and did not find a direct answer. 

I did learn that 14 year old Luther was sent to Eisenach by his parents to further his education. Since Luther and his friends didn't have Nintendo or a movie theater or even a baseball game to attend, they did caroling (I'm guessing not just at Christmas).

One of the homes Luther caroled at belonged to Frau Ursula Cotta and her family. She must have seen something in the singing teenager, and invited him to live with them, which he did for the following three years. She passed away in 1511. As a result, though, I think the one who was facing Mrs. Cotta is Luther.

The reformer was a frequent subject of Pauwels' art. There are also paintings of Luther entering the monastery, discovering the Bible, and, of course, nailing the 95 thesis on the Wittenberg door. His interest in the "founder" of Protestantism fascinates me, since Pauwels is the second Belgian I've become familiar with, and the first is the fictional, Catholic, detective Hercule Poirot. 

What do you think about this picture? Are there any people from history that you would paint portraits of if you have the ability?  

THE CONCERT BY GERARD VAN HONTHORST

 PART 11 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

So far in this series, I have shared my favorite painting of all time (see part 7), my second favorite painting of all time (see part 3), and my second favorite painter of all time (see part 1), but I have yet to mention who my favorite painter is. I'll be glad to answer that question: Gerard van Honthorst (1592-1656), also known as "Gerard of the Nights," due to his paintings of artificially lit scenes.

Van Honthorst was Dutch, like Rembrandt. What I found interesting is that van Honthorst was born about 14 years before Rembrandt and died about 14 years before Rembrandt. I'm curious if the artists knew each other.

I doubt most of you are familiar with van Honthorst, at least by name.  However, I'm guessing that you may have seen his "Adoration of the Shepherds" (left). 

One reason I enjoy van Honthorst is because I see a joy in a lot of his paintings. True, some were more serious in nature such as those dealing with the trial of Jesus (or the painting of the Angel rescuing Peter, to the right). But the Shepherds picture, as well as the Concert above show a cheerfulness. (I also see that cheerfulness in self-portraits of Von Honthorst.)

Did anybody know that I enjoy music? I'm guessing van Honthorst does as well. He has several paintings of musicians. Some are of individuals, some of group, and in one case (left) a Biblical example. 

Have you seen any of van Honthorst's art (besides the Christmas scene or any that I've used as a profile or cover photo on Facebook)? What is your impression of his art that I've shared, and particularly "The Concert" at the top? Is there a painter that does a good job giving you joy? 

ST. PETER PREACHING THE GOSPEL IN THE CATACOMBS BY JAN STYKA

PART 10 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

St. Peter Preaching The Gospel in the Catacombs, Jan Styka

 

I grew up in Southern California with a lot of tourist attractions. Disneyland. Knott's Berry Farm. Busch Gardens. Movieland Wax Museum. Mission San Juan Capristrano. California Alligator Farm. Marineland. Oh, did I mention Disneyland?

Would you believe on the list is Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery? Why would a young man enjoy going to a cemetery? Because there is a lot of artwork there. The Mystery of Life statue. A copy of Michaelangelo's David. A stained glass replica of Da Vinci's Last Supper. And the panorama paintings of the Crucifixion and Resurrection. The former is 195 feet long and 45 feet wide. I wonder if I could put it in my living room?

A few years ago, I was in a phase of looking at various artists - which is how I've learned about a lot of the artists and paintings that I've covered. So I looked up the Crucifixion painting to find out who did it. The answer is Jan Styka (1858-1925), originally from Austrian Poland. The picture on Wikipedia made me think of Hercule Poirot. That is when I discovered his painting "St. Peter Preaching the Gospel in the Catacombs." 

Am I the only one who thinks of Pentecost when they see this painting? Of course, the title states this was a different event. Probably, the setting for this is Rome. Styka spent time in Rome and in Jerusalem when he was doing the Crucifixion painting. Anyway, this is based on Peter being in Rome before his martyrdom and, as you would expect him to do before being imprisoned, preaching to his brethren.

What is your impression of this painting? Have you ever seen the Crucifixion painting at Forest Lawn? Are there any paintings based on Biblical or Church History stories that bring that era to life?

 

The Crucifixion, Jan Styka, in the Hall of Crucifixion/Resurrection, Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Glendale, CA. By FLgruiz - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114022881

FOUR MEN IN A FURNACE BY RUSSELL HARLAN

 PART 9 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

 

Black & white version of Russell Harlan's "Four Men In A Furnace."

I've always enjoyed drawing and writing, but by the time I got to High School, the only artist I knew of was Van Gogh, and that was because Snoopy had his paintings in his dog house! I did hear of a few others, but it wasn't until I studied art for a year at Yavapai College Verde Valley campus that I became familiar with most of the famous painters.

There was one artist that I noticed and enjoyed when I was in junior and senior high school, though. His name was Russell Harlan (1914-1972), and he was one of the illustrators for Arthur Maxwell's 10 volume The Bible Story. There were several full page pictures, and the artist of the painting was identified. Harlan's always stood out to me. 

I will admit: this may not be my favorite Harlan painting (though the color version is in the book). I no longer have access to The Bible Story. Probably my favorite painting in there was of a cheerful Paul waving as he was about to get on a boat, preceding the first story of the second section of vol. 10 (each volume had the stories divided into four sections). I don't remember if that was a Harlan or not, and I couldn't locate it.

Harlan also did art for 7th Day Adventist publications, which does not surprise me because Maxwell also was an Adventist. 

What are your thoughts of the above artwork? Do you have any memories of artwork you saw, whether or not you know who the artist was?

 

JESUS AND THE LITTLE CHILDREN (ARTIST UNKNOWN)

 PART 8 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Jesus and Children painting at Rutland Prayer Chapel

One of my favorite paintings is in the Rutland Prayer Chapel at Ridgecrest Retreat Center in Asheville, NC. However, I have no idea who the artist is. 😥

Is this a historical representation of Jesus blessing the children from Matthew 19? Of course not. Jesus was in an exclusively Jewish context at that time. But we need to remember Christ died for all. Color doesn't matter. Nationality doesn't matter. What does is faith and trust. As Paul wrote in Galatians 5:6, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything but faith working in love."

What are your thoughts about this painting? Are there any instances that your perception of who Jesus loves has been expanded beyond its previous limits?

SAVING CASTAWAYS, BY FRANCISZEK KSAWERY LAMPI

 PART 3 OF A 16 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Saving Castaways by Franciszek Ksawery Lampi

Yes, I'll admit I'm a Romantic. It shows up in my tastes in music: my favorite classical music includes Beethoven's 7th symphony, Wagner's Flying Dutchman Overture, Bruckner's 4th symphony (Romantic), Brahms' 1st symphony, and Tchaikowsky's Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture. Those who are familiar with these compositions will conclude I don't listen to much wimpy music. 

After doing a part in this series fitting for Independence Day, I have shared a couple posts dealing with perceptions of the direction this country is going. But I'm going a different direction, and I'm doing so with my all time favorite painting.

This is "Saving Castaways" by Polish painter Franciszek Ksawery Lampi (1782-1852), also known as Franz Xaver Lampi (don't ask me to pronounce either version). He is known for portraits of beautiful women and stirring landscapes such as the one above. His father and older brother also were painters, known respectively as Johanne Baptist von Lampi the Elder and the Younger. How cool is it to have "Baptist" as part of your name? Unfortunately, Franz was estranged and disinherited from his father, who stayed in Russia with the younger Baptist, while Franz settled in Warsaw.

Why is this painting my favorite? Simple. The title. For a person with a heart for refugees, it should be expected for me to adore a painting of such a rescue operation. Plus, having an evangelical background, it shouldn't surprise you for me to be moved by a painting that looks meant to be accompanied by the Fanny Crosby hymn "Rescue the Perishing." 

We may be concerned for this country, but the Church has a job, and it is to rescue the castaways. We are not here to be concerned about current trends - we're here to reach the lost.

What is your impression of this painting? Do you have a heart for rescuing those in need, physically or spiritually?

HOPE IN A PRISON OF DESPAIR BY EVELYN DE MORGAN

 PART 6 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Hope in a Prison of Despair by Evelyn De Morgan

Yes, you may have seen me use this picture as a cover photo and/or a profile photo on Facebook.

Evelyn De Morgan (born Mary Evelyn Pickering, 1855-1919) was from England. Her paintings have themes that are identified by scholars as spiritualist, feminist, and pacifist.

The reason I like this picture is because to me it deals with being in a role of encouragement. There are times we need someone to share a light in our life, but we also should be ready to be the one with the light to help others escape their prison of despair.

Today is July 6, a couple of days after Independence Day. Yesterday, I posted a picture of Sodom and Gomorrah and asked if our country was headed there. Maybe we are, and maybe we aren't. But is this country in a Prison of Despair? Are we regularly discouraged and depressed from hearing the news and looking at the state of this nation? And is there hope with us?

What is your impression of this painting? Do you identify more with the prisoner or the one with the light of hope?

SODOM AND GOMORRAH BY JOHN MARTIN

 PART 5 OF A 17 PART SERIES ON FAVORITE ART AND ARTISTS

Sodom and Gomorrah, John Martin 

  

You may be familiar with fire and brimstone preachers, but how about a fire and brimstone painter? And is it a coincidence that I'm showing a picture of Sodom and Gomorrah the day after Independence Day?

Several years ago, I looked at several artists, and one that made an impression was English painter John Martin (1789-1854). I've mentioned my impression with the scale of Rembrandt's "The Night Watch" four days ago. Martin is similar. He's known for having small figures in large scenes.

Martin has a beautiful painting called "The Plains of Heaven" (left), but a lot of his paintings deal more with destruction and judgment, from Biblical themes like the deluge and Sodom and Gomorrah to non-Biblical images like the Destruction of Pompei.

Maybe it's just me, but there is a "Wow" factor to Martin's painting style you may not see with other painters. There should be a "Wow" factor when we see God at work as well, whether the beauty and goodness He shows to His people or the sincerity when He renders to sinners their due. 

Unfortunately, too often we fall into the trap of the inhabitants Jerusalem to whom God said, "And at that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and will punish those settled in complacency, who say the LORD will not do good nor will He do evil." (Zephaniah 1:12)

Is there any connection to the definition of complacency given above, where our nation is at spiritually, and Sodom and Gomorrah? One can argue that those cities had that mindset, not believing that goodness would be rewarded or evil would be punished. Likewise, is our current culture in that mindset, thinking that we are in control of our lives, and seeing anyone who believes that our society isn't where it should be as being the enemy?

One last thought. If God destroyed Noah's world with flood and rained fire and brimstone on Sodom and Gomorrah, will there be a time when any country that rebels against God will provoke God to wrath and will receive what they deserve?

What are your thoughts of John Martin's painting style? And is this nation in danger of God's judgment?