Decision

We make decisions every single day, probably more than we even realize. Some are profoundly simple like, what’s for lunch today? Others feel impossible without research, prayer, or seeking advice from someone we trust. 

Recently, during a divinely appointed time with sisters in Christ, we were walking through an art exhibit when one particular piece of art stopped me in my tracks. I couldn’t move from it. The title was “Decision” by Jack E. Dawson.

At first, it reminded me of one of those search pictures, where you’re drawn from one symbol to another, always uncovering something deeper. This painting was filled with faces, people from history, like Christopher Columbus, and people from our present day, like George Bush and Hillary Clinton. Others were not famous at all. It was a blend of nations, ages, races, and time periods. 

As my JCM sister Heather and I stood there, naming who we thought some of the faces might be, an elderly man approached. I pointed to one of the faces and said, “Do you think that could be Andy Griffith?” He replied, “Could be.” Then, with my all-too-often unfiltered lips, I blurted out, “What are you, the artist?” To my surprise, he said, “Yes.” 

I couldn’t believe it! In that moment, I saw God’s humor in my tendency to speak before thinking. But now, standing face to face with the artist, I had the opportunity to ask the questions that had been bubbling in me since the painting first captured my attention. 

Toward the bottom of the picture, there was an empty space. He explained, “That’s for you.” It’s actually a space for each of us. You see, when you look across the painting, you notice that all the faces are turned toward a shadowy figure. In the reflection of the astronaut’s helmet, you see that the figure they are looking at is Jesus Christ, His arms stretched wide. It’s a stark reminder that all of humanity has a Decision to make: to follow Him or not. In the painting His light casts a shadow across humanity, to guide us and remind us that He alone is our supreme protector. The painting is a powerful reminder that every single person, famous or unknown, past or present — will one day face the same Person, Jesus. We will stand beside Mother Teresa, beside world leaders, beside our neighbors and family, and we will all be confronted with the Decision we made while alive.  

The artist also included the verse John 14:6: I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Heaven is above, hell is below, and each of us must decide. Do you believe Jesus is who He says He is — the only way to the Father? 

So, for just a moment, set aside all the decisions weighing on you, and focus on the only Decision that will matter for eternity: Have you chosen Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

I pray you say yes. 

Your sister in Christ, 

Amy 

P.S. Be sure to check out the painting for yourself in the link above.