During the past year, I've been exploring faith, contemplating what I really believe, what I have trouble believing, and how my faith has--and shall--affect and order my life. I still have more questions than answers, but I'm enjoying the journey while learning and growing along the way.
As part of my journey, I decided to participate in RETHINKCHURCH's Lent Photo-a-Day project. I wanted to contemplate the Lenten season more deeply and intentionally than I have before. Since I enjoy photography, this seemed like an ideal bridge.
I wanted to write about my photos, but what to say? I think I'll just explain how I think my photo illustrates the word or theme of the day. A modest goal, but more likely to be accomplished than a promise to write an essay on the topic. If I'm inspired to write more on occasion, wonderful. If not, no guilt.
So, announce...
When I think about "announce" in connection with Christ, I think of the Annunciation. That makes me think of how classical artists portrayed the annunciation--the colors, the symbols, the mood. The paintings are usually infused with color and light, creating a joyous yet portentous mood.
The word "announce" also makes me think of grand entrances, announcing the arrival of kings or leaders. Drama and trumpet fanfares.
So this led me to set up a specific image: the bell of a trumpet, glowing in the sun, preferably surrounded by bright color, combining the imagery from both threads of thought. I wandered through my yard with my son's old student cornet, looking for the perfect backdrop. When I held it up against the pink of the jasmine buds, I felt I'd found my image. Buds are joyous and portentous: they signal spring and new life. Exactly that Renaissance Annunciation mood I so loved.
And this image announces my intention to think about Lent, about Jesus' journey to the cross, and my own journey in faith.
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