Written Bible Art

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An Affirmation Prayer Based on the Parables
by James Bennett

Let us meditate upon the wonderful teaching stories of Jesus's parables. Indeed, we are deeply thankful for these stories. Their beauty lies in large part in their telling of everyday life among common people.
Although the stories are set in an earlier time and in a different culture, we know they contain timeless messages that we can apply in our own lives today. May we embrace the messages of these stories and apply them everyday in our own lives.
May we read and reread these stories until their teaching takes root in our hearts and minds so that our thoughts, feelings, and actions reflect the mind of Christ. Indeed, may the sower's seed find fertile soil within our hearts.That is what we desire most -- the pearl of great value -- our full realization of the coming of God's kingdom within us. Amen.

ADDITIONAL INTERESTING ARTWORK
These works portray unique messages beyond being mere illustrations.

The Prodigal Son and The Return of the Prodigal Son by Rembrandt (1606-1669)

The Good Samaritan by Eugene Delacroix (1798-1863)

The Sower by James Tissot (1836-1902)

NOTE: Images and links are not provided here because of copyright restrictions and because links often become outdated. However, reproductions of these works are easy to find on the Internet.

A Poem by Louisa Mae Alcott 1833-1888

A little kingdom I possess,
Where thoughts and feelings dwell;
And very hard I find the task
Of governing it well:
For passion tempts and troubles me,
A wayward will misleads,
And selfishness its shadow casts
On all my words and deeds.

How can I learn to rule myself,
To be the child I should,
Honest and brave, nor ever tire
Of trying to be good?
How can I keep a sunny soul
To shine along life's way?
How can I tune my little heart
To sweetly sing all day?

Dear Father, help me with the love
That casteth out my fear;
Teach me to lean on Thee, and feel
That Thou art very near:
That no temptation is unseen,
No childish grief too small,
Since Thou, with patience infinite,
Dost soothe and comfort all.

I do not ask for any crown
But that which all may win:
Nor try to conquer any world
Except the one within.
Be Thou my guide until I find
Led by a tender hand,
Thy happy kingdom in myself,
And dare to take command.