Monday, December 8, 2008

The Sacrifice of Iphigenia by Timanthes


Many years ago, a promising Greek artist named Timanthes was under the instruction of a well-known tutor. After several years, the young painter created an exquisite portrait. He was so thrilled with what he had painted that he sat day after day gazing at his work.


One morning, however, he was horrified to discover that his teacher had deliberately ruined his painting. Angry and in tears, Timanthes ran to him and asked why he had destroyed his cherished possession. The wise man replied, "I did it for your own good. That painting was retarding your progress. It was an excellent piece of art, but it was not perfect. Start again and see if you can do even better." The student took his advice and produced a masterpiece called "Sacrifice of Iphigenia," regarded by some as one of the finest paintings of antiquity.





Like the teacher in the story above, God never wants us to be content with our accomplishments. He wants us to reach even higher plateaus of service. My dear friends, let us not be satisfied with our spiritual attainments. In this world decaying with immoralities, let us keep pressing on ....
When you've reached a plateau,
And your strength almost gone,
But the Lord still says, "Go,"
That's the time to press on!
~~Hess~~
I wish you the best of the season Bloggers! Amidst the festive mood and celebration this season, let us not forget that the Babe of Bethlehem is the Savior at Calvary.
Have a blessed day one and all!
Sincerely,
Ophelia