© Kerry M. Pierce
The image Light and Vines is a Christian Mandala. It was inspired by two of the I AM statements of Jesus: I AM the light of the world, and I AM the true vine. The vines all connect directly into Christ. The colored, circular forms represent fruit and light given off by the believer as a result of their relationship to Jesus. The fruit closest to Christ is generally larger and more abundant.
Now, imagine a group of middle-age to retirement age Christians. Imagine that many of them are Norwegians; in fact some speak fluent Norwegian. These are mature, theologically conservative Christians. Finally, we are Lutheran Brethren so there is no wine involved. Lol.
There are a couple of Pastor’s in the group which I really appreciate.
Now give them the I Am Statements of Jesus Study. www.amazon.com/author/kerrympierce/ (I know shameless self-promotion.) But here’s what is cool. We get together, break into groups, and begin to share what we have done. People laugh about how badly they draw. There is laughter, a lot of laughter. People share their insights; things they discovered for the first time. People talk about what commentary they found helpful.
We read and reflect on Scripture. We grow more Christ-like. We grow closer to one another. It is really cool.