I decided to try something new today. I think adding text to this shot adds so much more emotion, thought, and feeling. I took this shot in Mexico City in August 2010 while I was wandering the streets alone one afternoon. Part of me doesn't want to show the photo because it almost feels like exploitation, and the other half does to remind myself of the things Christ teaches us. The scripture on this photo is from the book of Matthew, chapter 5 verse 3 from the New Living Translation.
I'd really like to hear some feedback on this photo. Emotions, feelings, theology, reactions whether negative or positive. What are they?
I really like the fact that the word heaven is transparent. Oh, and keep sharing your pics - God didn't give you this talent for you to keep it hidden. :)
ReplyDeleteI'll start with a small, visual critique if you're game! :) As far as layout, the wording might be slightly too close to the lady.
ReplyDeleteI like the colors used for the text although the white is slightly harder to read.
For the message of the shot, I think it's very truthful and powerful. My draw is to the people passing by. I think about the kingdom of heaven and wonder if we walk by it so many times in life because we are simply too consumed with pursuing our own personal goals.
About homelessness/injustice as a whole- Do we look away because it makes us uncomfortable? Do we ignore those who struggle because we don't know what else to do? Maybe our culture has taught us to avoid struggle and pain, so in our own numbness, we can't even relate anymore to the struggles they face. What would happen if we embraced the pain? What if we chose to avoid the separation from it? What if we did more than just saying that we're thankful that we aren't as unfortunate as others and actually took action?
It's a challenging and uncomfortable picture...but yet, Christ didn't come to this earth to be comfortable. I have no doubt that the cross was anything but comfortable.
The picture leaves me asking myself if I will let this image spur me to action (or just say "amen" and go on with my day.) If we are truly called to take up our cross and follow Christ, then what does that look like? Maybe the view from the cold ground is a lot more beautiful than all of the other things that we tend to chase after in life...it's all about perspective.
Those are my thoughts. :) Thanks for sharing your talent to help challenge others.