Philippians Series & Artwork

The Artist

Sarah Gorss [Terra Nova Saratoga]

Sarah lives in Schuylerville, NY with her husband, Jason, and their 5 children: Simon, Elliott, Evelyn, Violet & Mercy.  Sarah created this piece of art on a 24″ x 24″ woodcut block layered with monotype and printed on rice paper.

To help us remember this series, we will be giving away bookmarks so be sure to pick these up at your local Terra Sunday Gatherings. 

The Art

Life is hard. Not one of us gets through life without sorrows and sufferings. In fact, Paul writes to the Philippian Christians: “For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in Him, but also suffer His His sake.” (Philippians 1:29).

Life is also good. And, life in Christ is one of joy, contentment and satisfaction. In fact, to the same Christians in the same letter Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

Yet, we often feel “hard pressed between the two” (Philippians 1:23).

The artwork for Philippians shows two distinct environments in one frame. Central is the yellow chrysanthemums. A flower that traditionally symbolizes joy and hope. However, surrounding these flowers is darkness, thistles and thorns all representing the curse. This image hopes to convey the same message found in Philippians. It is possible for joy to be found in and through sorrow and pain. Just like Adam and Eve were called to work by the sweat of their brow to push back against the hard ground to bring forth life – we are called to work the hard ground of our hearts to root out sin and doubt to make room for God’s original design to be cultivated and grown within us.

Philippians

In the Spring of 2024 the Family of Terra Nova Churches will be journeying through the book of Philippians in our Sunday sermons and small groups.

So, wether you are in Troy, NY or Saratoga Springs, NY or in North Adams, MA – please find your way to a local Terra Nova Church and journey along with us!