“Let Love Be Without Dissimulation. Abhor That Which Is Evil; Cleave To That Which Is Good. Be Kindly Affectioned One To Another Art

And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. (John 6:39 KJV)
And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. (John 6:39 KJV)
And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. (John 6:39 KJV)
“For the seller shall not return to that which is sold, although they were yet alive: for the vision is touching the whole multitude thereof, which shall not return; neither shall any strengthen himself in the iniquity of his life.” (Ezekiel 7:13, KJV)
“For the seller shall not return to that which is sold, although they were yet alive: for the vision is touching the whole multitude thereof, which shall not return; neither shall any strengthen himself in the iniquity of his life.” (Ezekiel 7:13, KJV)
“Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them? And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also? For which cause both thou and all thy company are gathered together against the LORD: and what is Aaron, that ye murmur against him?” (Numbers 16:9-11, KJV)
A profoundly symbolic and awe-inspiring depiction of a colossal, luminous pearl which rolls to open a gate in the New Jerusalem, captured in the dynamic act of rolling away, similar to the stone being moved from Christ's tomb. The gate, a single, immense, perfectly spherical pearl, is shown mid-motion, having just been set aside from the entrance, revealing the glorious city beyond. The pearl and the entrance opening are the same size. The pearl itself glows with an intense, soft iridescence, reflecting the divine light. Its surface shows subtle, exquisite details of mother-of-pearl. The frame or opening from which it has rolled away is visible, perhaps showing immense, smooth tracks or channels in the transparent gold structure of the city wall, reinforcing the idea of its monumental movement. Through the now open gate, the radiant glory of the New Jerusalem streams forth. Pure gold streets, like transparent glass, extend into the city, illuminated by an intense, divine light that emanates from within. Heavenly architecture, impossibly beautiful and intricate, is glimpsed in the distance, beckoning. The atmosphere is one of profound sanctity, triumphant revelation, and welcoming access to the divine, with the act of the pearl rolling away symbolizing a breakthrough or an open invitation. The lighting is ethereal and grand, emphasizing the pearl's luster and the city's overwhelming glory."
A serene and rustic autumn landscape based on the provided image, featuring an aged farm implement (a seeder or planter) in the foreground. The old machinery retains its weathered green and rust colors but is now positioned amidst a carpet of vibrant fallen autumn leaves in shades of gold, orange, and russet. The large, leafy trees in the middle ground, which were green in the original image, are now transformed into glorious specimens of fall foliage, displaying brilliant yellows, fiery oranges, and deep reds. The distant field shows hints of freshly turned earth or dry, golden stubble. In the background, the small house with the blue roof remains, nestled amongst a dense forest that is also ablaze with autumn colors. The sky is a clear, bright autumn blue, with warm, golden sunlight characteristic of a pleasant fall day, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the rich textures of the old equipment, the tree bark, and the colorful leaves. The overall mood is one of peaceful rural charm, autumnal beauty, and the quiet dignity of farm life as the seasons change.
A serene and rustic autumn landscape, featuring an aged John Deere farm implement (a seeder or planter) in the foreground. The old machinery retains its weathered green and rust colors but is now positioned amidst a carpet of vibrant fallen autumn leaves in shades of gold, orange, and russet. The large, leafy trees in the middle ground, which were green in the original image, are now transformed into glorious specimens of fall foliage, displaying brilliant yellows, fiery oranges, and deep reds. The distant field shows hints of freshly turned earth or dry, golden stubble. In the background, the small house with the blue roof remains, nestled amongst a dense forest that is also ablaze with autumn colors. The sky is a clear, bright autumn blue, with warm, golden sunlight characteristic of a pleasant fall day, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the rich textures of the old equipment, the tree bark, and the colorful leaves. The overall mood is one of peaceful rural charm, autumnal beauty, and the quiet dignity of farm life as the seasons change.
“And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand.” (Revelation 7:4-8, KJV) Only create 12 tribal ensigns.
“Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.” (Joshua 1:1-4, KJV)
“Who went forth by the way that leadeth to Galgala, and pitched their tents before Masaloth, which is in Arbela, and after they had won it, they slew much people.” (1 Maccabees 9:2, KJVA)
A breathtaking and surreal scene of vibrant Aspen trees in full autumn splendor, encased within a massive, crystal-clear, life-size glass bubble, reminiscent of a hyperrealistic snow globe. The glass bubble is perfectly spherical and transparent, allowing an unobstructed view into its contained world. Inside the bubble, a fierce autumn wind is whipping through the Aspen trees, which are ablaze with brilliant golden, yellow, and orange leaves. Countless individual leaves are detached from the branches and are swirling dynamically in a vibrant vortex around the tree trunks, creating a beautiful, chaotic dance. Some leaves cling to the ground, while others are caught in mid-air, a riot of color against the pale, smooth bark of the Aspens. The ground inside the bubble is covered in a thick carpet of fallen, colorful leaves. The exterior of the glass bubble reflects and subtly distorts a serene, autumnal mountain landscape or clear blue sky, emphasizing its pristine, contained nature. The lighting is bright and ethereal, perfectly illuminating the vibrant leaf colors and the transparency of the glass, highlighting the dynamic movement within. The overall mood is one of encapsulated beauty, powerful natural forces held in exquisite suspension, and serene wonder."
“And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.” (Matthew 26:26-29, KJV)
My sincerest apologies that the Queen appeared angry! That's completely contrary to the "serene and noble expression" we aimed for and the dignity implied by Psalm 45. We need to explicitly reinforce a gentler, more gracious demeanor. You're also right to focus on the gold's shine. We can definitely enhance that. To address both issues—the expression and the gold's luminosity—we'll make two key adjustments: Refine Expression: Use stronger words for a gentle, majestic, and perhaps beatific expression. Enhance Gold's Shine: Introduce Baroque Art Style as a secondary influence. Baroque is famous for its dramatic light, intense gleam on metals and jewels, and dynamic richness, which will make the gold truly radiant. It pairs beautifully with Oil Painting for opulence. Revised Prompt for "Queen in Gold of Ophir - Gentle Expression & Shining Gold" Oil Painting Art Style, Baroque Art Style, a breathtakingly majestic and regal portrait of "The Queen in Gold of Ophir," inspired by Psalm 45. The Queen stands with impeccable grace and royal dignity, her posture radiating quiet power. Her expression is serene, gentle, and profoundly gracious, with a subtle, knowing smile, reflecting noble peace. She is adorned in an exquisitely elaborate gown woven entirely from the finest, purest gold of Ophir, which shimmers and gleams with unparalleled brilliance, catching every ray of light. Her attire is intricately embellished with countless precious jewels—sapphires, rubies, and emeralds—each sparkling intensely with Baroque dynamism. A delicate yet regal golden crown, also ablaze with light, rests upon her head. The setting is a grand, opulent royal palace chamber, with rich tapestries and polished marble, bathed in dramatic, warm, golden ambient light that creates striking highlights and deep, luxurious shadows, making her and her lavish garments glow. Focus on the unparalleled brilliance, texture, and radiant shine of her golden gown, the intense sparkle of her jewels, her majestic yet gentle presence, and the luxurious, sacred atmosphere befitting a queen in God's presence.
A profoundly symbolic and awe-inspiring depiction of a colossal, luminous pearl gate in the New Jerusalem, captured in the dynamic act of rolling away, similar to the stone being moved from Christ's tomb. The gate, a single, immense, perfectly spherical pearl, is shown mid-motion, having just been set aside from the entrance, revealing the glorious city beyond. The pearl itself glows with an intense, soft iridescence, reflecting the divine light. Its surface shows subtle, exquisite details of mother-of-pearl. The frame or opening from which it has rolled away is visible, perhaps showing immense, smooth tracks or channels in the transparent gold structure of the city wall, reinforcing the idea of its monumental movement. Through the now open gate, the radiant glory of the New Jerusalem streams forth. Pure gold streets, like transparent glass, extend into the city, illuminated by an intense, divine light that emanates from within. Heavenly architecture, impossibly beautiful and intricate, is glimpsed in the distance, beckoning. The atmosphere is one of profound sanctity, triumphant revelation, and welcoming access to the divine, with the act of the pearl rolling away symbolizing a breakthrough or an open invitation. The lighting is ethereal and grand, emphasizing the pearl's luster and the city's overwhelming glory."
“I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end.” (Daniel 6:26, KJV)
“I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end.” (Daniel 6:26, KJV)
“And Solomon sent to Huram the king of Tyre, saying, As thou didst deal with David my father, and didst send him cedars to build him an house to dwell therein, even so deal with me. Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel. And the house which I build is great: for great is our God above all gods. But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?” (2 Chronicles 2:3-6, KJV)
“He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it.” (Isaiah 44:14, KJV)
A breathtaking and surreal scene of vibrant Aspen trees in full autumn splendor, encased within a massive, crystal-clear, life-size glass bubble, reminiscent of a hyperrealistic snow globe. The glass bubble is perfectly spherical and transparent, allowing an unobstructed view into its contained world. Inside the bubble, a fierce autumn wind is whipping through the Aspen trees, which are ablaze with brilliant golden, yellow, and orange leaves. Countless individual leaves are detached from the branches and are swirling dynamically in a vibrant vortex around the tree trunks, creating a beautiful, chaotic dance. Some leaves cling to the ground, while others are caught in mid-air, a riot of color against the pale, smooth bark of the Aspens. The ground inside the bubble is covered in a thick carpet of fallen, colorful leaves. The exterior of the glass bubble reflects and subtly distorts a serene, autumnal mountain landscape or clear blue sky, emphasizing its pristine, contained nature. The lighting is bright and ethereal, perfectly illuminating the vibrant leaf colors and the transparency of the glass, highlighting the dynamic movement within. The overall mood is one of encapsulated beauty, powerful natural forces held in exquisite suspension, and serene wonder."
A breathtaking and surreal scene of vibrant Aspen trees in full autumn splendor, encased within a massive, crystal-clear, life-size glass bubble, reminiscent of a hyperrealistic snow globe. The glass bubble is perfectly spherical and transparent, allowing an unobstructed view into its contained world. Inside the bubble, a fierce autumn wind is whipping through the Aspen trees, which are ablaze with brilliant golden, yellow, and orange leaves. Countless individual leaves are detached from the branches and are swirling dynamically in a vibrant vortex around the tree trunks, creating a beautiful, chaotic dance. Some leaves cling to the ground, while others are caught in mid-air, a riot of color against the pale, smooth bark of the Aspens. The ground inside the bubble is covered in a thick carpet of fallen, colorful leaves. The exterior of the glass bubble reflects and subtly distorts a serene, autumnal mountain landscape or clear blue sky, emphasizing its pristine, contained nature. The lighting is bright and ethereal, perfectly illuminating the vibrant leaf colors and the transparency of the glass, highlighting the dynamic movement within. The overall mood is one of encapsulated beauty, powerful natural forces held in exquisite suspension, and serene wonder."
“The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.” (John 6:41, KJV) Do not put bread in the picture but rather the setting is Jesus teaching in synagogue in Capernaum with the people looking disgruntled, some whispering to eat other and perhaps someone standing and speaking out to Jesus.
“And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.” (Matthew 26:26-29, KJV) Use Matzo style bread
This is a great idea. For this version, let's lean even further into that "Elven High-Fantasy" aesthetic you like, but ground it in their specific Biblical legacy as the "hewers of wood and drawers of water" for the Tabernacle. In this prompt, we will portray their service not as a lowly task, but as a display of superhuman strength and grace—showing that even in their "servant" role, their "giant" nature and ancient wisdom remained visible. Written Prompt: The Sage-Giants of Gibeon Style: Cinematic High-Fantasy, 8k Resolution, Epic Scale. A blend of The Lord of the Rings aesthetic with Ancient Near Eastern Bronze Age history. The Subject: A group of three Gibeonite men, standing at a staggering height of 7.5 feet. They possess the ethereal, noble beauty of High Elves—sharp, intelligent Semitic features, high cheekbones, and long, dark hair intricately braided with silver and lapis lazuli. The Stature & Grace: They are lithe and muscular, moving with a fluid grace that defies their size. Despite their "giant" classification, they are elegant, not monstrous. The Role (Hewers and Drawers): > * One Gibeonite is seen effortlessly carrying a massive, ornate stone water jar on one shoulder that would require four normal men to lift. Another holds a bundle of enormous cedar logs, his posture straight and regal, showing no sign of strain. The Attire: They wear a mixture of their new culture and their old heritage. Fine linen tunics in ivory and deep blue are accented by ornate bronze bracers etched with ancient Canaanite geometry. Their clothing is weathered with the dust of the road but still looks "high-born." The Setting: They are standing on a high limestone ridge overlooking the ancient city of Gibeon. In the background, the Tabernacle's smoke rises into a golden sunset sky. The architecture around them consists of massive, "cyclopean" stone blocks that match their scale. Lighting & Atmosphere: Dramatic "God-rays" of sunlight pierce through the clouds, catching the metallic glint of their jewelry and the profound, wise expressions in their eyes. The mood is one of "Dignity in Service" and "Ancient Wisdom."
“Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was sore troubled for this thing; and he called his servants, and said unto them, Will ye not shew me which of us is for the king of Israel?” (2 Kings 6:11, KJV)
“And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” (John 20:30-31, KJV)
“And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” (John 20:30-31, KJV)
Oil Painting Art Style, Baroque Art Style, a breathtakingly majestic and regal portrait of "The Queen in Gold of Ophir," inspired by Psalm 45. The Queen stands with impeccable grace and royal dignity, her posture radiating quiet power. Her expression is serene, gentle, and profoundly gracious, with a subtle, knowing smile, reflecting noble peace. She is adorned in an exquisitely elaborate gown woven entirely from the finest, purest gold of Ophir, which shimmers and gleams with unparalleled brilliance, catching every ray of light. Her attire is intricately embellished with countless precious jewels—sapphires, rubies, and emeralds—each sparkling intensely with Baroque dynamism. A delicate yet regal golden crown, also ablaze with light, rests upon her head. The setting is a grand, opulent royal palace chamber, with rich tapestries and polished marble, bathed in dramatic, warm, golden ambient light that creates striking highlights and deep, luxurious shadows, making her and her lavish garments glow. Focus on the unparalleled brilliance, texture, and radiant shine of her golden gown, the intense sparkle of her jewels, her majestic yet gentle presence, and the luxurious, sacred atmosphere befitting a queen in God's presence.
First century Palestine. Mid-morning in a rural area. The sun is warm and the atmosphere is positive. Jesus and His disciples walk along a country road that goes to Bethany. There are some trees shading part of the road ahead, and cultivated fields on either side of the road. Jesus, wears ordinary clothing like most men, and He’s talking to His disciples as the walk along. The disciples are listening intently to Jesus, and His face is kind, but intense. A farm house sits off to one side, and the town is visible in the distance.
A wide-angle, epic and majestic fantasy-realism style illustration for ArtStyles, based on Psalm 92:3, capturing a grand, celestial-inspired musician at dawn. In a mystical, open-air temple balcony under a starry sky with the constellation Aquarius prominently visible as a shimmering water-bearer icon pouring water, a majestic figure with a flowing beard and blue and silver robes (symbolizing Aquarius and music) is seated. Before the figure are two elaborate instruments. One is a unique, gilded and carved wooden harp with a distinct triangular frame, which is explicitly and clearly shown with exactly ten distinct, visible, and countable strings stretched taut. The strings are glistening with cool, deep blue and golden light as the musician plucks them. Nearby, a beautiful, multi-stringed wooden psaltery (a trapezoidal zither-like instrument) sits on a stand, also being played by the other hand. As the musician plays, glowing streams of illuminated, cascading blue and indigo water, visualized as physical music, emanate directly from the vibrating strings of both the ten-string harp and the psaltery. This water-music does not fall as rain, but flows down and out in majestic, powerful, yet gentle streams, just like an outpour from an Aquarian vessel. The water-music pools into a crystal-clear basin below the instruments, and then cascades over a series of carved crystal steps, spreading out across the temple floor and into a valley, illustrating the sound going out. The "solemn sound" is visualized through the deep, rich colors of the flowing water and the light within it, and the steady, powerful, and calming nature of the flow. The atmosphere is solemn, peaceful, and epic. The surrounding architecture is ancient and detailed with astrological symbols of stars and flowing water. In the distant valley, a magnificent city and a winding river are touched by the flowing water-music. No text or labels are on screen. The lighting is early morning gold and blue. Detailed fabric textures and wood grain are visible.
A profoundly symbolic and awe-inspiring depiction of a colossal, luminous pearl gate in the New Jerusalem, captured in the dynamic act of rolling away, similar to the stone being moved from Christ's tomb. The gate, a single, immense, perfectly spherical pearl, is shown mid-motion, having just been set aside from the entrance, revealing the glorious city beyond. The pearl itself glows with an intense, soft iridescence, reflecting the divine light. Its surface shows subtle, exquisite details of mother-of-pearl. The frame or opening from which it has rolled away is visible, perhaps showing immense, smooth tracks or channels in the transparent gold structure of the city wall, reinforcing the idea of its monumental movement. Through the now open gate, the radiant glory of the New Jerusalem streams forth. Pure gold streets, like transparent glass, extend into the city, illuminated by an intense, divine light that emanates from within. Heavenly architecture, impossibly beautiful and intricate, is glimpsed in the distance, beckoning. The atmosphere is one of profound sanctity, triumphant revelation, and welcoming access to the divine, with the act of the pearl rolling away symbolizing a breakthrough or an open invitation. The lighting is ethereal and grand, emphasizing the pearl's luster and the city's overwhelming glory."
First century Jerusalem at the "gate beautiful" to the temple grounds. Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong.
“For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;” (Hebrews 7:1-2, KJV)
A simple cartoon-style propaganda poster drawn with bold, thick marker lines. Use a limited color palette of bright red, dark navy blue, white, and small black outlines. At the top, include a cool, bold propaganda-style font that looks hand-drawn with marker, saying: “FOUR LEGS GOOD, TWO LEGS BETTER!” Make the word “BETTER” much larger and more dramatic. In the center, show a group of white sheep with simple cartoon faces, wide excited eyes, and big happy smiles, cheering together. The sheep should look identical and drawn with simple marker outlines. They are looking at a pig who is walking upright on two legs in a bright spotlight. The pig should be glowing or surrounded by simple marker-drawn light rays to show fake admiration. Add confetti, simple celebration lines, and maybe one sheep holding a small sign. The background should use strong blocks of red and navy blue, like a simple propaganda poster. Include very simple outlines of a barn or farmhouse in the background. Overall style: cute cartoon, clean, bold marker strokes, easy shapes, limited colors, and a brainwashed, energetic vibe.
create a sunrise sign in typographic collage form with a sunray half sun with symbolic pagan star symbols on top of a banner that says DAYBRINGER IN IN PIG LATIN
“And Solomon sent to Huram the king of Tyre, saying, As thou didst deal with David my father, and didst send him cedars to build him an house to dwell therein, even so deal with me. Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel. And the house which I build is great: for great is our God above all gods. But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?” (2 Chronicles 2:3-6, KJV)
At his Grandmother's house in Penang, while the tropical rain taps softly against the window, Wing Sun, Mother and Grandmother gather in the cozy living room. The room glows with the soft light of an oil lamp, and the walls are adorned with faded photographs and delicate calligraphy. Grandmother’s eyes sparkle as she begins to speak—a voice that carries both the wisdom of her years and the tender care of someone who’s seen many seasons change. Wing Sun is pensive with anticipation. What will she say?
Inside an informal church in Kuala Lumpur. Wing Sun and his father and mother, along with Siu Zi, his friend from school are there together. We are standing in the back of the room, and there are many more people than there were in the London church. There are people of different ethnicities, but mostly Chinese Malaysian. The Pastor, a Chinese man, is standing up front speaking to the congregation, facing them. The atmosphere is hot and sweaty, with ceiling fans running, but still welcoming, Wing Sun is happy that his family is together and also that his friend Siu Zi, who he has just learned is a Christian, can be there too.
In Penang, Malaysia. Wing Sun's Grandmother is elderly and lives in Penang, on the island. Grandma's house is in a quieter part of the island, closer to the coastline where the sea breeze can be felt through the wooden windows. It's near the ocean, in Tanjung Bungah where there are old-style homes and a slower pace of life. There are many resort "homestay" hotels, and also some high-rise condos, but Grandmother's house has been there many years. Wing-Sun's mother grew up in that house, near the beach, with the ocean breeze. We see the house from down the street with Grandma standing in the doorway greeting us.
This day, though, I hiked another autumn wood. Eastern Europe ancient; overgrown. So thick the view was dark at just a few feet off the path. All red and yellow; orange and brown, a million trees, each one in blazing preparation for long, frozen winter. I cannot but recall my friend’s words, lasting long, though he did not, and the instant truth that follows. Looking upward at the fiery canopy, matched against the bright cerulean sky beyond, I embrace autumn! Winter surely comes one day, but spring beyond. I have a winter to prepare for, but it is not yet.
Create without using words “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” (Revelation 22:17, KJV)