Wrestling with God 1/20/13

And Jacob was left alone. And a man wrestled with him until the breaking of the day. When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob's hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, “Let me go, for the day has broken.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” And he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

(Genesis 32:24-28 ESV)

The Bleeding Woman 1/15/13

This woman is mentioned in Matthew, Mark, and Luke.  She must have been an outcast from society for her affliction.  She must have not only suffered physically, but also emotionally and spiritually as those around her shunned her and prevented her from entering places of worship.  However, she knew who her savior was and how he could heal her and she had the boldness to reach out and touch him, which must have been considered improper.  Jesus responded by saying it was her faith that made her well.  She didn't have to touch him, but that act demonstrated her inner belief, despite her years of discouragement.  Jesus cared enough for her to stop in the midst of a busy crowd, on his way to save someone else from dying, to talk to her.

"And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well."

(Matthew 9:20-22 ESV)

Lifter of My Head 1/8/13

My, my, it's been a long time.  It's so easy to fall out of habits.  As I think about the last several months, I know that I need to start drawing again.  Along with that, I've begun a plan to reread the entire bible this year.  It would seem that both of these things are appropriate New Year's resolutions.  I've felt the lack of them.

This drawing is inspired by Psalm 3:

"O LORD, how many are my foes!

Many are rising against me;

many are saying of my soul,

there is no salvation for him in God. Selah

But you, O LORD, are a shield about me,

my glory, and the lifter of my head.

I cried aloud to the LORD,

and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah"

(Psalm 3:1-4 ESV)