The Flame Going to Nazareth by Frank Wesley, 1923-2002
Wesley was born in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh into a fifth generation Christian family of Hindu and Muslim descent. His paintings reflect this influence and that of the Chughtai school of painting that flourished in India at the turn of the century. Wesley made art based on both biblical and secular themes. He used water colours, oil paintings, miniatures and wooden carvings. (Source: Art in the Christian Tradition, Vanderbilt University Divinity Library, https://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=59171)
The Advent season is one of discovery of what God has revealed, and is ever revealing to us. It requires of us, the journeyers, to step out in faith with our eyes and ears open, with a willingness to embrace our part in the Story, regardless of where it takes us. All of the steps, including the stumbles, are a part of the Story. The only real question is: do we trust the Storyteller to guide our way?
My wife Lois and I will leave soon for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be away for an extended period of journey & discovery. We are so grateful to our employers for giving us this chance to embark on an adventure of this magnitude. We are grateful for the generosity of the Bishop's Fund and for the final gift of Lois' mother to give us the resources we need. And we are grateful for St. Andrew's great staff, plus a couple of extra angels (Bonni and Deb) to cover for me while we are away.
Check back for updates of our discoveries, along the road...
Joy at the start Fear in the journey Joy in the coming home A part of the heart Gets lost in the learning Somewhere along the road
Along the road Your path may wander A pilgrim's faith may fail Absence makes the heart grow stronger Darkness obscures the trail
Cursing the quest Courting disaster Measureless nights forebode Moments of rest Glimpses of laughter Are treasured along the road
Along the road Your steps may tumble Your thoughts may start to stray But through it all a heart held humble Levels and lights your way
Joy at the start Fear in the journey Joy in the coming home A part of the heart Gets lost in the learning Somewhere along the road Somewhere along the road Somewhere along the road
- Along the Road, Dan Fogelberg