Hypogrammos

Year 6-Day 54: Today, I am grateful for good examples. 

Perhaps Billy Graham is still on my mind. Or maybe that another lifetime friend faces her Godly mother's visitation and funeral today and tomorrow. And then, a new word is uncovered in the Greek from 1 Peter 2:21: hypogrammos (hupogrammos is the pronunciation).

In ancient Roman times, they used a tool for teaching someone to write in the way of the teacher. The teacher would use a stylus and a wax tablet to create a written original. The student would literally learn to write in the grooves of the teachers handwriting, so that the student could perfectly imitate and copy the teacher's writing. Before the printing press, this was a valuable tool. The master's words, handwriting and ways were under the students hand, directing their path. It was an example to follow and a guide. Imagine how precious such a wax tablet would become when the teacher died and was no longer with them. Priceless, right?

I have lettering templates and stencils that I use today in paper crafting and Bible Journaling. Some use graphite paper to trace images into their Bibles. One of my favorites is an artist named Jann Gray. She is a master at this technique and teaches it.  She traces images from things like photos and creates simple line drawings that she colors with great attention to detail. Jan has created a product called "One and Done" that allows us to trace her work and learn from her experiences. I fell in love with her art, but then I have had the privilege of getting to really know her heart. She seeks to imitate Christ and she does it beautifully through her art. I am grateful for her good example. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrzqgT35TKY&feature=youtu.be

Let's go back to the verse from 1 Peter 2:21 and consider it again for the first time. 

 "For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps." 

Now, let's complete the thought in context of the text:

"He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly." 1 Peter 2:22-23

Peter lived and walked with Jesus. He is one Jesus kept very close. Peter was so passionate about Jesus, but he could be impulsive at times. Jesus needed to keep Peter close to let Peter walk in his steps. I love Peter. So brave at times... and chicken at others. I get Peter's struggle. Walking with the Master must have been so cool. He could touch him and imitate his tone of voice when he encouraged people. I can only imagine it. 

I am grateful we have His Word... and things like Blue Letter Bible to let us explore the original language. I am grateful for artists who help us grow by their example. I pray, that God may use each of us who choose to walk in his footsteps to be His hands and feet where they are needed most. 

Today, I am grateful for good examples.