The good Shepherd
I capture moments in art so lets reflect on this painting as we walk through moments we share.
As this scene unfolded my thaughts wondered and came to rest in Psalm 23.
The scene is set in a sprawling landscape on an overcast nearly rainy day that could go either way. I thaught, how similar to life that is. When your stuck in that moment not knowing how it's going to turn out.Long ,soft ,smooth strokes of the brush layers the smokey sky.
As you linger in the valley , the green pastures invite you in. Bright green patches of life breaking through .How happy this flock must be, they shall not want. No barren land, all their needs provided for. Led beside still quiet waters, they were refreshed at any time. Walking down an open road, protected and unafraid, knowing they are guared and safe.
My eyes fall on the lonely Shepherd, walking down the road. A simple Shepherds staff held in his hand . All he needs for their protection more than his. I look at the little sheep right at the back, running to catch up from way behind, knowing where he belongs. I want to join them as they continue this peaceful journey. The distant hill like a table prepared before me, nearly touching the sky a place of rest. To the right, a Shepherd on a horse, no not a horse but a lowly donkey, His body a little to big for the beast, with no palm fronts on this ground. A splash of red catches my eye and the umbrella that covers her shape from the lingering rain. She walks with purpose covered and protected as she goes. The modern scene down a country road in that moment could cast me away to a place that spoke to my soul.
The piece was greated slowly building up layers of glazes over smoothly applied paint to reflect a sense of peace.
Psalm 23
A psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd,(A) I lack nothing.(B)
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,(C)
3 he refreshes my soul.(D)
He guides me(E) along the right paths(F)
for his name’s sake.(G)
4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,[a](H)
I will fear no evil,(I)
for you are with me;(J)
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table(K) before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;(L)
my cup(M) overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love(N) will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever