ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

In his early years as a fine artist, Paul T. Boecher did a lot of sculptures for various individuals and businesses. Everything from totem poles to fish and birds, along with a life-sized relief carving of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. The above piece is now located in our church. I don’t think I’ve ever shared it before. So, here it is. The individual photos of various symbols on the sculpture are all very meaningful.

The picture shows a closeup of the base which is hewn from a discarded railroad beam. It represents the cross of Christ and the piece of wood He carried through the streets of Jerusalem. This was designed to represent the cross bar that Jesus would be crucified upon. One of the photos shows a spike, which was recreated to be symbolic of a handmade nail from circa 33AD, which would pin Jesus to that cross. It is also a reminder of 9/11 and the destruction on that day. The base of the sculpture is representative of the waters which flooded the earth in Noah’s time. The photograph of a green sprout coming from the beam, indicates the discovery of new life. The dove at the top, carrying a small branch, fulfills the promise that the flood is over, and dry land will facilitate the start of restoration.

When we think about restoration, we can be sure that it can occur when we let God lead us. I wrote this poem to go with the sculpture, but I think the description of the elements within it are truly beautiful all by themselves. The beginning of the year represents a time for change and renewal. Today, think about how you can bring the Joy of Jesus to someone.

INNER PEACE by Kathy Boecher©

Times of turmoil and confusion, peace may seem aloof or gone,

Yet the Lord of all creation, stills the waters and the storm,

He will calm the rumbling seas, He can give relief from pain,

He can help you through all trouble, making loss become your gain,

Put your trust in His compassion. Put your faith in Him alone,

He provides for your salvation and will take you safely home.