Woe, by Joshua LaRock

Josh LaRock describes the painting:

Woe is a work that seeks to engage its viewers in the universal emotion its title suggests. This man is in the grips of anguish and sorrow. Perhaps this is his initial reaction just after receiving distressing news, or maybe this is a moment captured as he perseveres in a long struggle. The distant village suggested in the valley behind him may lead us to believe that he has sought refuge in the solitude of the surrounding mountains while he searches for inner strength.

Take note also of the irony that one so physically, and seemingly, outwardly powerful is yet susceptible to troubles of the soul. I further urge the viewer to notice the vivid crimson drapery which he is beginning to rend, designed to heighten the drama of the scene and symbolize that this woe has cut him to the very core.

See more of Josh’s work on his website www.joshualarock.com.

In this past Sunday’s installment in our summer series on the Sermon on the Mount, we heard Jesus’ teaching on how we think of others: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Jesus didn’t mean for us to ignore our discernment about what is right and wrong behavior, so what type of judgment is he speaking of, and how do we live as part of his kingdom in this area of our lives?

Caleb Clardy, July 26, Do Not Judge
Do Not Judge

Also, as a part of our Calling All Artists series, several dancers for our community put together this dance for this week’s text. View it here or click below.

Trinity Grace Church Dance Piece — ‘Do Not Judge’ (26 July 2009) from Trinity Grace Church on Vimeo.