The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.  Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

    The painting, “RESPONDER,” features 3 first responders (police, fire, medical) assessing a scene filled with chaos, danger, and uncertainty. They move forward and offer help to all in need. The police represent the thin blue line that separates chaos from civility as symbolized by the blue line around the window. Without the police there is less protection from evil doers. Without the fire-fighters, we are at the mercy of catastrophe. Without the medical, we are left in need of their life-giving care. The four chairs represents the three responders (green/medical, blue/police, red/fire) plus the white chair remembering Chaplains, who offer a vital support. The children in corresponding colors could be future responders. They all risk their lives to provide help just as the good Samaritan portrayed in the window. Responders are active all over the world, as depicted by the globe and yet there is something even greater than man helping man. Do you notice the spark of light between the helpless and the helper? This represents the supernatural work that can only be accomplished by God. The suggestion of Christ’s face is evident in the lower left side of the globe. His outstretched hands remind us that He is the Ultimate Responder who, as the Bible says, saves us from the greatest threat, the consequence of sin. His death on the Cross (see it in the window) offers rescue far beyond our physical needs but also to our greatest need – eternal salvation. Do you notice the dark sky which reminds us that this world is filled with darkness and trouble? Yet, the lights suspended in the darkness remind us that we, the Church, are called to shine Christ’s light.

Thank you to all responders.
We appreciate you and pray for your safety.