A Picture Speaks

Source: Detroit News Photographer: George Murry-Facebook

Year 8-Day 149: Today, I am grateful when a picture speaks.

Most of you know I am a hobby photographer... a serious amateur. I am not an expert, but I know enough to share pictures with other.  Even though word wrangling gives me great joy, I love when a photo doesn't need words.  

The This picture was an answer to a prayer... and WOW! God does answer prayers. Look at the image. I believe it was taken by Detroit area photographer, George Murry. I don't know the whole back story, but the children were being read to in a story circle. She put her head on his lap. He instinctively placed his arm to cover her and hold her close. Breathtaking! 

Never underestimate the power of gathering people in a circle for story time. (Jesus used this approach often. He wasn't preaching... He was teaching... and often through parables)

Back to the picture here... look at this capture. Oh my goodness. As the story was read, this sweet little girl put her head in the lap of a friend. He protectively lovingly wrapped his arm around her. This picture speaks a thousand words without a single vowel. 

THREE gospels captured this passage. There are very few passages that make 3/4 gospels, but when they do... pay attention. Matthew 19:14, Mark 10:13-15 and Luke 18:16. 

"And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” - Mark 10:13-15

In Mark's version, it is clear that Jesus was very displeased when the disciples tried to keep the children away. In a world full of prejudice and hate in 33 AD... children we still simply children. We can learn from so much from them. Jesus said we had better pay attention to them and learn. 

The crowds around Jesus were mixed in race, native language and culture. It is why the establishment hated him. They feared his message of love, peace and equality in the sight of God. Each life of value. Each skin color beautiful. Each human soul worthy of any price... even his life. 

We can look to the children and learn about trust and love without reservations or limitation. This image is absolutely priceless on any day... but especially, today. (Thanks for sharing it Sarah Luparell Leander)

Today, I am grateful when a picture speaks.