Prayer in Jefferson Square
“Prayer in Jefferson Square” is based on a photo by Tyler Gerth, taken during the Black Lives Matter uprisings in the summer of 2020, used with permission. Artwork by Susan E. Brooks
Prayer, preaching and protest characterize the lives of the beautiful women I am blessed to have as friends. They hold the world together as far as I can tell.
Too Much Fear
Too much of 2020 and now 2021 has been characterized by dread, fear, dwelling on the negative and separating ourselves from one another. Some of the physical separation is necessary because of COVID, but dwelling on the negative and often false narratives we hear about various groups in our communities has been polarizing.
Wisdom from the Apostle in Chains
Philippians 4:4-8 has been a lodestar for me in challenging times. Let’s break that down verse by verse:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Even in the worst of times, we can rejoice in the love of God and in the love of our families and friends. Paul is writing these words while in chains. He is familiar with suffering, and yet he can rejoice. We need to grieve sometimes, but rejoicing is the “always” condition of knowing we are loved. I hope you can feel that you are loved and rejoice in it, even in the midst of grief.
Gentleness, Please
Verse 5 says, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit, and God knows we need more of it these days. God is with us and God is love. Awareness of the nearness of God should yield gentleness in the people of God. Let us be known for our gentleness.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
What is the best response to difficulties? “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I am expert at anxiety. My wild imagination can think of all kinds of crazy, tragic outcomes that will probably never happen. But on a good day, I can pray, give thanks, and accept the peace of God. I hope you can too.
Whatever Is True
This next verse is a biggie for these days of internet conspiracy theories and questionable news reports. “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Prayer in Jefferson Square
Let’s focus on the good: There were beautiful women of God from my church praying with people in the middle of the uprisings last summer.
The true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy actions of these dear friends—I was thinking of these things as I completed the artwork. I know Black Lives Matter to God and they matter to me. Let’s focus on the truth and beauty and pull together to help each other through the coming year.
“Prayer in Jefferson Square” will be on display as part of my solo show from March 3 until April 4 at Kore Art Gallery, 942 E. Kentucky St., Louisville, Kentucky 40204. Open Wednesday thru Saturday 11:00 to 6:00, Sunday 12:00 to 4:00. A percentage of sales from the show will go to Kentucky Refugee Ministries.
