Two Artists

Do you see a man skilled in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before obscure men.

Of the many vocations that invite the concentrated application of gift and skill, being a graphic artist is aimed toward the light of the body, namely the eyes.

Centuries before we had the advantage of photography and digital manipulation, our forefathers had to use imagination tied to the digits on their hands to render images of beauty, proportion, and interest.

Two artists who gained notice for this skill were Lucas Cranach and Albrecht Durer, both of whom were admirers of Dr. Martin Luther; both of whom treated biblical themes in their work.

While Dr. Luther testified from common man to king in bringing to light the Gospel of Christ Jesus, which in that day had been obscured by all kinds of philosophical innovation, these two artists did the same with visual depictions crafted with skill which until that time was unknown.

It was not as if these men had a driving urge to be noticed. Rather, knowing themselves to be recipients of grace from Above in every way, they applied themselves with diligence and joy to their vocations, and this in turn led to wide recognition.

For you, dear Christian who has been purchased with the blood of Christ Jesus, there is a work of great skill to be set before kings, namely the work of Christ Jesus on your behalf, which you possess completely and fully by faith.

It was not through any driving urge on your part that this work is yours, but a driving urge from before the foundation of the world that took you and set you up in a high place, namely the presence of God.

While you may not think your confession of Christ Jesus is made before kings, it issues forth from the King of Kings on behalf of all mankind as you render quiet service with the skills and blessing you've received from Above, no matter how great or small.