'Forgiven' by Thomas Blackshear: Oh, to Be Held by Jesus!

For an illuminating discussion of the painting "Forgiven" by Thomas Blackshear - and to see the mesmerizing image - click here. Meanwhile, what does this painting mean to you? Please feel free to leave a comment below - whether you're a believer, seeker or skeptic.

For me, "Forgiven" delivers the message of the Gospel in a powerful way. I identify with the young man depicted in the painting. Until I was saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Yeshua Ha'Mashiach), I too held a mallet and nail in my hands - in other words, my sins (and yours) made it necessary for God to break into history cloaked in human flesh to pay the price for my sins (and yours) by getting nailed to a cross. There is hard, cumulative evidence that shows that Jesus rose from the dead. He is Who He claimed to be - which is to say, God incarnate.

There is nothing I could have possibly done to earn my salvation. Nothing. Why? Because without God's grace, it would be impossible for me- and you - to live up to God's perfect moral standards (I break at least one of the Ten Commandments every day - and so do you. We can't help it, we're sinners in need of forgiveness).

I'm forgiven. Hallelujah!

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves. It is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV).

Would you like to receive Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior and be forgiven? You can enjoy an intimate relationship and eternal life with your creator by believing that Jesus paid the penalty for your sins. Ask to receive Jesus by using your own words - or pray this:

Dear God of Abraham, I confess I am a sinner and need forgiveness. I now turn from my sins. I believe that on the cross, Jesus (Yeshua) shed his precious blood and died for my sins. I receive Him as my personal Savior and eternal King. Thank you for cleansing me of my sin, and help me to live a life that is pleasing to You. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.

Welcome to the family!