COVID-19 does not stop EMBER Middle School Ministry at Winston Salem First from meeting. July was the month of Psalms. I recently led an art project on Zoom where over 20 middle schoolers joined in. A week prior, the middle school pastors went to each home and delivered a bag of art supplies with instructions on how to be set up ready to go !!! Here are nine of the pieces I received. I would have loved to post all 22 but rounding up middle schoolers is like herding kittens. I love you all!!!

The lesson started with a shield. Within that shield included objects from various Psalms.

Ancient drawings dating back to 300 AD often contained elements from the crucifixion. For example: nails, ladder, hammer, vinegar rag, dice (lots) and more. I am talking really ancient. Tattoo designs were implemented this way. I know , most people don’t like hearing that but too bad. Can’t erase truth. Early pilgrimages into Jerusalem were often marked by applying a tattoo to the wrist . During the crusades it was common for Christians to receive a tattoo in order to be granted entrance into early churches. The original tattoo location in Jerusalem is still operating as a family business. Go figure!

Back to our lesson. The young artists illustrated objects in Psalms. Though the tattoo topic was not discussed with the middle schoolers, you are too young guys, I had to mention it in my blog because research on the matter was inspiration for this lesson.

Psalm 3:3……….God shields us in battle ( Shield appears many times in Psalms.)

Psalm 18:2………God is our rock

Psalm 91:4………God covers us with pinions ( outer section of a spreading of the wing)

Psalm 22:1, 8, 16, 18……. Messianic prophecy, Ancient Jerusalem cross

Psalm 45:3………. Sword 

There you have it. As long as I am driven to impact others with my art I will continue to find ways in spite of the longevity of this social distancing. I don’t spend my time being bummed out and sulking over any social requirements or life style changes. There are still kids out there needing guidance and direction in this crazy world and I will stand up to the call. God knows what He is doing. I bet my life on it!

Peace ! Shalom