bible

it's a thinker

The concept for this painting started as a design for a pumpkin carving contest. I felt the message of the design is so important for people to hear, I decided to make it into a painting. The original design, done in pen and ink. The design only shows the two doors of the entrance to a fortress. I tried to keep the design simple, because the carving event is both timed and live. You must create your masterpiece on the pumpkin they provide, on their location, Infront of live spectators. The evolution of the design? I added a wall on each side of the entrance, with matching pillars. Explaining the design of the pillars The triangle top: the triune God. Representing three persons of God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit. The cross shape opening in the pillars: The cross is the only path to God, to have the debt of sin satisfied. To reconcile humankind back to himself. To be released from being a slave to the Devil. To be a new creation empowered by God Spirit. Explaining the design of the entrance way(gate) The top of the entrance is in the shape of a heart, represents the seat of human passion, ambition, and allegiance. The cultic three petal flower is used to represent God in three persons united. The symbol inside the flower: God’s ministry toward humankind. Crown: Highest authority Cross: God’s loving salvation and restoration plan. The dove: Spiritualty made alive, fellowship with God, empowerment to weather the storm of life, and equip for service to God. Change in the design of the door. In the original design, one door had roses carved on it. The pattern took up the whole door. The other door had a grape vine carved on it. The pattern took up the whole door. I modified the emblem on the doors by making them smaller and simplified, so I could place them inside heart shapes, so the new images would more clearly communicate what they are meant to represent. I also added color to the emblems (color pencil) to make them clear of what they are, because of their size and the ink medium ,they were hard to interpret. Understanding the symbol of the two doors. The door with the rose inside the heart emblem represents a heart whose passions, ambitiousness, allegiance are focused on the cares, worries, and abstaining riches of the world. Only giving God lip service. I chose the rose to represent the heart of spiritual allegiance to the world, because roses are pretty, but you can’t eat them to nourish your body. They also have thorns that can cause injury to the body. So, the parallel point is, just as flower fade and turn to dust, so will the person who chases the thing of the world and has no time for God. For life is very short, we know not which will be our last breath on this side of eternity. But if a person leaves this earth without excepting the gift God offered them which is salvation from penalty of sin and given enteral life through the work that was done on the cross by God’s son. Then that soul will appear before Jesus, and just as they did not know him in their life on earth, He will tell them he knows them not. Into the lake of fire, they will spend eternity. The door with the grape vine in the heart emblem represents a heart whose passions, ambitiousness, allegiance are for God. To know Him intimately, to obey His teachings, to serve his will. I chose the grapevine to represent the heart of spiritual allegiance to God, because grapes are nourishing to the body. Jesus also used a grape vine in one of his parables. He paralleled the spiritual relationship he had with his disciples and the grapevine. He told them just as branches of a vine must depend on the base of the vine to live and bare fruit, so they must abide him to have abundant life. Abiding in Christ is not a religious act. It is outside of religion. It is an intimate relationship. Example: you can belong to a fan club of Paul McCartney and know a lot of things you have heard about him, but he doesn’t even know you exist. Where, if Paul is your father, and you have a good parent to child relationship, then you know him intimately. So, abiding in God, we commune with him through read his word and living by its teachings. It is spending time in prayer. Sharing our hearts with God and spending time listing to him. Trusting in him as our provider and giving thanks for his provision. Living our lives, with the purpose of pleasing him with the work of our hand and loving our neighbors in the workplace as well as in the community. Just as a healthy grapevine continues to grow and produce much fruit. Having an imitate relationship with God should be more and more evident in the way we live our lives. So, when the angel of death pays you an unexpected visit, he escorts you to Jesus’s throne, you know for certain he going to welcome you with loving arms and said welcome home my faithful servant. Now to which door I chose for my life? It’s the one that is open. This bible verse one of a couple that inspired me to design this illustration. 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 King James Version 12 Now if any man builds upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble. 13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. This verse is not referring to the rebellious people who have rejected God, this is referring to people who are children of God, who failed to serve God faithful. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo. 3 Jan 2024 Evolution of the design of this painting. I believe God through His Holy Spirit guided me to change the crosses on the two pillars, one on each side of the doors. Instead of these windows being fill with darkness, which would represent death by crucifixion, which Jesus endured for humanity, that who so ever is willing may be delivered from the power of sin and be adopted by God to become a member of His family. I was inspired to put light in both cross windows. The cross window on the side the open door, with the grape vines on it, the light matches the color of the light that is coming out the windows of Icons shapes representing the ministry of tri union God. The color I used is a bright firry orang yellowing color. For the bible says God is a consuming fire. The cross windows on the side of door with the flower on it, I used the color greenish yellow lite; to represent a false light, the bible call it a form of Godliness without power. Who so ever tries to approach God another way, than the path God has ordained. They will not be received. The Devil distorts the truth, to lead many to their demise. The only way to know the difference between truth and fallacy, is to study God’s word. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo August 7,2024

English translation of John 7:24

‭‭In our little potted gardens, sometimes our plants thrive, and sometimes they don't. But what remains constant are the pots still being a pot. This reminds me of the Bible verse, which served as the inspiration for this week's post: -Isaiah‬ ‭40:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬- The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever. //There are 6 Sundays leading up to Good Friday. In observation of Lent, I will be posting 6 works inspired by the theme. This is for the 5th Sunday of Lent.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Title: Heart and Soul Medium: illustration pens on sketch book paper Style: surreal Category: illustration Created: Dec-Jan 2024-2024 Artist: Stephen J. Vattimo Heart and Soul This is preliminary drawing for a painting I am about to begin. The concept for this illustration started as a design for a pumpkin carving contest. I feel the message of the design is so important for people to hear, I decided to make it into a painting. The original design, done in pen and ink. The design only shows the two doors of the entrance to a fortress. It was designed for a live pumpkin carving event in mind. At this type of event, the carver must create their piece of art live on site with spectators watching and asking questions, and there is a time limit. The evolution of the design? I added a wall on each side of the entrance, with matching pillars. Explaining the design of the pillars The triangle top: the triune God. Representing three persons of God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit. The cross shape opening in the pillars: The cross is the only path to God, to have the debt of sin satisfied. To reconcile humankind back to himself. To be released from being a slave to the Devil. To be a new creation empowered by God Spirit. Explaining the design of the entrance way(gate) The top of the entrance is in the shape of a heart, represents the seat of human passion, ambition, and allegiance. The cultic three petal flower is used to represent God in three persons united. The symbol inside the flower: God’s ministry toward humankind. Crown: Highest authority Cross: God’s loving salvation and restoration plan. The dove: Spiritualty made alive, fellowship with God, empowerment to weather the storm of life, and equip for service to God. Change in the design of the door. In the original design, one door had roses carved on it. The pattern took up the whole door. The other door had a grape vine carved on it. The pattern took up the whole door. I modified the emblem on the doors by making them smaller and simplified, so I could place them inside heart shapes, so the new images would more clearly communicate what they are meant to represent. I also added color to the emblems(color pencil) to make them clear of what they are, because of their size and the ink medium ,they were hard to interpret. Understanding the symbol of the two doors. The door with the rose inside the heart emblem represents a heart whose passions, ambitiousness, allegiance are focused on the cares, worries, and abstaining riches of the world. Only giving God lip service. I chose the rose to represent the heart of spiritual allegiance to the world, because roses are pretty, but you can’t eat them to nourish your body. They also have thorns that can cause injury to the body. So, the parallel point is, just as flower fade and turn to dust, so will the person who chases the thing of the world and has no time for God. For life is very short, we know not which will be our last breath on this side of eternity. But if a person leaves this earth without excepting the gift God offered them which is salvation from penalty of sin and given enteral life through the work that was done on the cross by God’s son. Then that soul will appear before Jesus, and just as they did not know him in their life on earth, He will tell them he knows them not. Into the lake of fire, they will spend eternity. The door with the grape vine in the heart emblem represents a heart whose passions, ambitiousness, allegiance are for God. To know Him intimately, to obey His teachings, to serve his will. I chose the grapevine to represent the heart of spiritual allegiance to God, because grapes are nourishing to the body. Jesus also used a grape vine in one of his parables. He paralleled the spiritual relationship he had with his disciples and the grapevine. He told them just as branches of a vine must depend on the base of the vine to live and bare fruit, so they must abide him to have abundant life. Abiding in Christ is not a religious act. It is outside of religion. It is an intimate relationship. Example: you can belong to a fan club of Paul McCartney and know a lot of things you have heard about him, but he doesn’t even know you exist. Where, if Paul is your father, and you have a good parent to child relationship, then you know him intimately. So, abiding in God, we commune with him through read his word and living by its teachings. It is spending time in prayer. Sharing our hearts with God and spending time listing to him. Trusting in him as our provider and giving thanks for his provision. Living our lives, with the purpose of pleasing him with the work of our hand and loving our neighbors in the workplace as well as in the community. Just as a healthy grapevine continues to grow and produce much fruit. Having an imitate relationship with God should be more and more evident in the way we live our lives. So, when the angel of death pays you an unexpected visit, he escorts you to Jesus’s throne, you know for certain he going to welcome you with loving arms and said welcome home my faithful servant. Now to which door I chose for my life? It’s the one that is open. This bible verse one of a couple that inspired me to design this illustration. 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 King James Version 12 Now if any man builds upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble. 13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. This verse is not referring to the rebellious people who have rejected God, this is referring to people who are children of God, who failed to serve God faithful. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo. 3 Jan 2024 .

This pen-and-ink illustration was done for the cover of a church statement of faith. I named this illustration Foundation of America because I believe this country was founded by Christians who had strong faith in the God of the Bible, and through faith, prayer, and sacrifice, the patriots overcame the mighty British military. By the hand of God, a new nation was born: the United States of America. When the United States was filled with God-fearing people, God raised the country to be a super power, and the world envied the United States and flocked to her shores, the land of freedom and opportunity. Now this country has forgotten the God who gave birth to her and now is setting up new idols to worship: idols of wood, stone, metals that do not hear or see or care. Because the United States has forgotten God, it has been plagued with storms, tornadoes, floods, droughts and her enemies are waging war with her, waiting to celebrate her fall. It is my hope and prayer that people who love this country will return to honoring God and return to giving Him thanks for all the great works He has done for this nation and turn from our sins and follow God by obeying His Word: the Holy Bible. That God will remove His hand of judgment and His blessing may return to our country. This church was fist built in 1890 and is still being used as a church. It is in Norristown, Pennsylvania. This was the first Bible-believing church I attended when I became a Christian. (October 28, 2017)

Gustave Doré, pencil on paper, 2019

The Meeting Bell Medium : Pen and Ink On Bristol Board Size : 11" x 15" Year illustration was completed : 1987 This illustration was part of a collection of pen and ink rendering i did for a christian mission, for their pamphlet that was published to inform the community, surrounding churches, and the military post near by, of the services they offered, and about their ranch. Their main ministry is to the military service personnel and their families. They offer a weekly dinner followed by a Bible study. They offer a place where service personnel could spend the weekend at the ranch for free, with meals included. There would also be activities they could partake in , such as going to concerts, going to amusement parks, visiting national park for picnics and hiking. The ranch holds retreat for military personnel who are in training, who want to learn about the Bible , and enjoy good home cooked food, rest, and out door recreation in the country. This ministry also lends it's facilities too near by churches, and to the military chaplaincy, for luncheons. This ministry is a great work of God, share God's word, and love through hospitality. About the bell. I call this illustration the meeting bell, because it sat right out side the activity center, and when ever a retreat was being held, the bell was use to let the guess know when a meal was being served, or a Bible study was about to begin. If you study the bell you can tell that at one time it must have been housed in some kind of church or fire house, by the big wheel attached to it's side, so it can be rung by a rope. Then when it found it's self at the ranch , they must have had a arm clacker manufactured, To strike the bell to sound.

https://joyofsatan.org/www.angelfire.com/empire/serpentis666/Astaroth.html The ancestral Goddess of my ancestors the Canaanites and Phonecians. She has been well known to many ancient civilizations by many names and has been with humanity among Many other Gods since the dawn of humankind. Many disgusting lies have been spread about her as well as many other of our ancient Gods. The false christian holiday Easter in particular was a spin off of the actual pagan holiday Ostara or the spring equinox, and is antithetical to Lady Astarte in every way who symbolizes the ultimate feminine beauty, fertility, kindness and new life, where as the sacrifice of the fictitious christ figure is a symbol of a literal human sacrifice, something the bible is rife with. Learn the truth today and return to your origins. Our true Gods predate abrahamic filth by thousands of years. All the disgusting lies the bible tells about the pagan Gods are false. Exposingchristianity.com Kabbalahexposed.com

Medium : Pen and ink on Bristol Board Size : 11" x 15 " Year illustration was done : 1987 This rendering of a broken down wagon, is part of a group of Pen and ink illustrations I did for a christian mission , for their pamphlet that was put together to imform the public about their services and ministry to the military members and their families. This mission reaches out to miltary through offering hospitality, Bible studies, holding retreats, and hosting luncheons for church groups. Military soldier who are in training also would come out to the rach to spend the weekend off post, to rest, learn the Bible , get home cooked meals, and enjoy out door recreation. I work as a summer missionary with this mission a couple of summer, helping with up keep of the ranch and helping with conducting the retreats. written by Stephen J. Vattimo

This painting started out as a pumpkin design for the Chads Ford, Pennsylvania, Historical Society’s Great Pumpkin Carve, which I have been participating in for the last eleven years. What inspired me to turn the design into a lasting painting was the message, made the design so relevant. It seems the message, which echoes louder and louder as each day passes; the force of heaven and hell are coming out of the dark and into the daylight. The dove in the painting has always been used in mankind’s history to represent hope, peace, and the symbol of the Holy Spirit. The sun in the Bible is called the greater light that governs the day. So, I used dove and the sun to represent the spiritual force of the heavenly kingdom that is seen and unseen in our world. The bat is known as a creature of the night, thought to be a foul creature that people fear. The moon in the Bible is called the lesser light, which was created to govern the night, to give light on to the earth at night. Nighttime is mentioned in the Bible as when men do their evil deeds. Before man invented methods to light the street and people’s homes, people limited their activity at night due to the absence of light. People with superstitious beliefs believe that demonic creature dwelt in the shadow and would attack them if they stepped out of the light. Another historical fact is that bandits would hide in the dark and rob night travelers. People also worked while it was daylight, then would party, get drunk, and sleep around at night. The Bible mentions that those who reject God’s Messiah do not come into the light because their deeds are evil, and they don’t want them to be exposed. So I chose to use the bat and the moon to symbolize the dark evil kingdom of the fallen angels. 168 The reason why the two creatures converge in the middle is because mankind is the centerpiece that both sides are contesting for. Man kind, in the beginning, was created as a holy creation. But just as Satan decided he was going to exalt himself above His Creator, he went to the rest of the angels to get them to join his army to dethrone God. When Satan and his army lost the battle for the heavenly kingdom, He turned his eyes to conquering the earthly realm by tempting mankind, who God had gifted the deed of the earth to. The devil possesses a snake to hold a conversation with man to deceive them into distrusting God and leading them to disobey the commandment from God not to eat from The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. This is how man became the middle battleground. God’s force is battling to restore mankind back to fellowship with God and regain their citizenship in God’s eternal kingdom. Satan and his army of fallen angels work on deceiving, afflicting, and destroying mankind in hope of taking as many as his army can drag to the eternal lake of fire, where God will throw everyone who has denounced Him as their God and king. (Sept 18, 2016) See Less

Medium : Pen and Ink size : 11'' x 15'' Bristol Board Date : 1993 This study of a piano was done for a woman who was a missionary with her husband. They served in a Christian ministry that reached out to military personal and their families, through the teaching of the Holy Bible and showing hospitality. They have been missionaries most of their lives. I met them while i was a summer missionary the year I was in college. I went back two more summer to help , and they became my friends. The woman is a gifted piano player, so I was asked if i could do an illustration of her piano for her. This couple have inspired me through their dedication of using their lives to serve God through serving others, that many may know God through the teaching, and living out the Word before others.

A little digital sketch of an original universe

Mortal Elvarelyn is telling Erik & Abigail about her life when she was an Alceridian demon before Qasaherim exiled her whilst Bernard scowls at them at the same moment when Gerard is reading the Bible.this is actually the first drawing I worked on CSP but it took me weeks to finally finish the background since im not too keen on drawing them.I even drew a house (it's the first time in years actually)it looks shabby but then again lots of peasant houses were shabby and small.

This painting was done for my sister. She loves dolphins, and she asked me when I would paint a picture for her. When I considered doing this painting, I thought about how I could design an illustration that would use the names of fish to teach her the attributes of Jesus being the Son of God and Savior of the world. The names of the fish who reveal something about Jesus’s attributes are labeled in red, just as in a red-letter edition Bible, the words spoken by Jesus are printed in red. The names of the fish whose labels are blue are different breeds of angelfish. Three dolphins represent the trinity of God—the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit. The silhouette of the three men on crosses represent the price Jesus paid on the cross to buy man out of slavery of sin and deliver man from being cast into the eternal lake of fire. The black-and-white fish is called a sheep head. John the Baptist called Jesus the lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world. The reddish-orange fish is called a flaming angel. John said that he baptized people with water to call themselves back to God and to repent for their sins. He said that Jesus would baptize with fire the person called the Holy Spirit. The gold-yellow fish is called the shepherd angel. In the Bible, Jesus is referred to be the Good Shepherd because He takes care of His followers as a sheep herder would take care His sheep. He provides for their needs and protects them from danger. The brown fish with the fanned-out fins is called a lionfish. The Bible call Jesus the lion of Judea. Jesus first came to the Earth to deliver mankind from sin by offering His life to pay for our sin. The second time He comes, He will come to set up His earthly kingdom and rule over all the nations for a thousand years. The small fish with a scarlet head is called a king demoiselle fish. Jesus will have all authority to rule over all the nations given to Him from God the Father. 48 49 SALVATION The large orange fish with the green fins is call a rainbow parrot. The rainbow represents a covenant between man and God. Just as God put a rainbow in the sky once the great flood ended to remind man of God’s promise not to destroy the world by flood again. So, do we have a covenant through the blood of Jesus that if man will accept the terms to be delivered from sin, its eternal punishment, and turn from pursuing a rebellious life toward God, God will give them eternal life. The sleek brown-and-white fish is called a schoolmaster. Jesus spent the last three years of His life teaching about who God is, what heaven is like, what hell is like, what sin is, and how it keeps man separated from God. What is God’s plan to redeem man from sin? He taught how man should live to be pleasing in God’s sight. (October 28, 2017)

All glory to God

Ok made the 2nd Mystery of the Mysteries of Light: The Wedding of Cana. Also an important revelation and the prime miracle that started Jesus' "hour". I definately spent much more time on the Baptism because of it's important icon significance but I found some good lil inspiration for this too, a bit more simple but nice. ^_^ Oh and if you don't know the story: John Chapter 2 1 And the third day, there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee: and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 And Jesus also was invited, and his disciples, to the marriage. 3 And the wine failing, the mother of Jesus saith to him: They have no wine. 4 And Jesus saith to her: Woman, what is that to me and to thee? my hour is not yet come. 5 His mother saith to the waiters: Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye. 6 Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three measures apiece. 7 Jesus saith to them: Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And Jesus saith to them: Draw out now, and carry to the chief steward of the feast. And they carried it. 9 And when the chief steward had tasted the water made wine, and knew not whence it was, but the waiters knew who had drawn the water; the chief steward calleth the bridegroom, 10 And saith to him: Every man at first setteth forth good wine, and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse. But thou hast kept the good wine until now. 11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee; and manifested his glory, and his disciples believed in him

And here it is! The Theophany (Manifestation of the Holy Trinity on earth for our Salvation), The 1st Luminious Mystery of Light: The Baptism of Jesus! Here's some of the symbolism explained: John the Baptist gestures up and down indicating the Divinity and Humanity of Christ. Christ blesses John. Christ identifies himself with our purification and with mankind. Voice of Father and Spirit reveal Trinity. Dove reminds us of Noah's flood, Christ Baptism frees us from the flood of sin. Angels are submissive and glorify God as we should. Ax cuts down the fruitless "The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown in the fire" (Matthew 3:10). Christ blesses water to become water of renewal. Jordan river, the fleeing man in the water, turns back (Psalm 113), and the seas are represented by the drake. Hope ya'll enjoy! ^_^

The 4th Joyful Mystery, the Presentation of Jesus. I put Joseph up front because he had a very important part not only in the Circumsision of Jesus after 8 days but also the Presentation of Jesus after 40 days. In fact the Fathers are the ones who offer the sacrifice in private (with other jewish priests etc.) in order to "Redeem" the child. Hence one of Saint Joseph's titles: "The Redeemer of the Redeemer". He also has the unique title of the "Savior of the Savior" because in the flight to Egypt after this event Joseph saved Jesus from the hands of Herod. Oh and I got to see the tomb of Saint Simeon! It's in Zadok and we got to see his body, he still had flesh but his beard had fallen out (poor guy, lol). He was a very holy man, I could feel the graces there. ^_^ St. Simeon and St. Anna the Prophetess, pray for us! Luke 2: 22-39 22 And after the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, were accomplished, they carried him (Jesus) to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord: 23 As it is written in the law of the Lord: Every male opening the womb shall be called holy to the Lord: 24 And to offer a sacrifice, according as it is written in the law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons: 25 And behold there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him. 26 And he had received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when his parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, 28 He also took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said: 29 Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord, according to thy word in peace; 30 Because my eyes have seen thy salvation, 31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples: 32 A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. 33 And his father and mother were wondering at those things which were spoken concerning him. 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother: Behold this child is set for the fall, and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted; 35 And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed. 36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser; she was far advanced in years, and had lived with her husband seven years from her virginity. 37 And she was a widow until fourscore and four years; who departed not from the temple, by fastings and prayers serving night and day. 38 Now she, at the same hour, coming in, confessed o the Lord; and spoke of him to all that looked for the redemption of Israel. 39 And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their city Nazareth

It's our Mother of Jesus! Child Version! ^_^ Our order actually has a devotion to the Child Mary as well as the Child Jesus. It's all about being little and realizing our calling as Children of God. When I draw these little cutesy things it helps me to remember to be little, to not take things so seriously all the time. By the grace of God they give me joy. :) Remember, be little! Peace

One of my latest pen and ink colouring page I have created for my latest YouTube video-https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-JivhOLzEax6ovOLAUwxxA/videos

Philippians 4:6 NLT- Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. My style is drawing bible-based colouring sheets which I share here and on Instagram as drawn_to_dwell.

Peter took His Eye off Jesus and began to sink. Medium: Acrylic on canvas Size: 11”x 15” Date: 2019-2020 This illustration is one of nine, in a mural about the ministry of Christ. This image is block number 7. This painting illustrates Jesus rescuing peter, as he start to sink in to the sea, because he lost his faith when took his eyes off Jesus, and focused on the violence of the winds and waves of the storm. Matthew 14:22-33 New American Standard Bible (NASB) Jesus Walks on the Water 22 Immediately He [a]made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. 23 After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. 24 But the boat was already [b]a long distance from the land, [c]battered by the waves; for the wind was [d]contrary. 25 And in the [e]fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. 26 When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out [f]in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” 28 Peter said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” 29 And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and *said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!” When I did my research, I Found very few biblical accurate illustrations of the event. Very few captured the darkness and valiance of a stormy sky taking place at 3:00 am in the morning (which is the forth watch of the night. Many illustrations I found, their skies were too bright and calm. I found that the seas in these illustration had the same lack of movement and violence, the sea would have in a storm that was so strong the disciples were not able to make any headway in their crossing the lake. I notice that all illustrations of Jesus walking on water, show the viewer His feet. In reality the waves would most likely block the viewer from seeing his feet on top of the water. The unavoidable black eye in most of these illustrations of Jesus walking on water, is the ridicules and unrealistic possess they have Jesus in, of Him rescuing Peter. You know the ones where He is making some kind of sign with one hand, as it is held up toward the sky, and one hand reaching down to peter. What was I trying to accomplish in my illustration? I want to be careful, to being accurate with costumes styles, and colors worn by the poor people of Galilean society. I wanted to be accurate in illustrating a storm on the sea of Galilee. I looked over numerous photos on line, of storms taking place on the Sea of Galilee. To understanding how the water and sky behave during a storm I studied the colors of sky, clouds, and water, during these conditions, in this location of the world? Showing movement in the air and the water. I used stylist brush strokes, to create movement in the sky and in the water. I am hoping to make people feel the storm’s violent energy. Showing power of the wind blowing against the bodies of Jesus and peter, through the movement of clothes, and hair. Showing the anxiety of Pete, with his body swallowed up to the waist, his face looking up to Jesus to rescue him from drowning. Showing that Jesus offers security to Peter, from being swept away by the wave of the sea. By his secure grasp of Peter’s back arms. He is able to lift Peter out of the water. The message I want my view to receive, is that everyone who comes into the world will experience trials and tribulation. We can overcome our fears and be filled with courage, to enable us to battle our ways through these storm in life. When we place our trust in the one who has authority over the power of the storm, who is Jesus a member of the trinity of God that created all things. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo 3/16/2020

Size 4' x 5' Painted on canvas Medium acrylic painted 1995 In this illustration i am trying to portray how active the spiritual world is in every day of our lives. How heaven and hell, these two kingdoms are battling it out to win our devotion. Even when A person chooses to become part of God's family, the believer will still have to struggle with the forces of darkness as long as we live in these mortal bodies. The room is suppose to look like it's on fire. This is to represent the destiny of man, spending eternity in the lake of fire, if he refuses to be saved through God plan of salvation. the two people in this paint are the two leader of the two kingdoms. The Devil on the left, Jesus on the right. They are both standing at the door way that will lead to their kingdoms. They are both beckoning the viewer to go through their door. In this painting I want the viewer to understand that spiritual battle take place with every decision we face. When we come to a spit in the road our we going to choose the right road or the wrong road? What ever road you Choose will sooner or later reap the reward. The reward will either be destruction or blessing, the blessed think is we choose I illustrated the devil in a beautiful purple robe with gold sequence , To show He is the king of the fallen angels. Purple in the Bible was worn by king and governors and ruling authorities. The purple hood is to show that Satan is a deceiver. He will take truth and twisted into a lie , kind of the way a person will put poison mix in peanut butter to get rid of an unwanted mouse. Most people don't recognize when the Devil is temping them, because the only view of Him they have is the movie the exorcist. But He is more effective when He appears in the form of a used car salesmen. The gold belt He wears and the golden door way represent His tactics to side tract us with the love of temporal thing such as the love of money , fame, power. If a person gain the whole world yet loose his soul what has he truly gained. Illustrated Jesus dressed in a golden Robe with a golden sash. This represent He is the High priest who offered the sacrifice that appeased the requirement to deliver man from the power of sin, and restore man back to fellowship with God The Father. The door way to heaven is made up of the cross that Jesus gave His life on. If you look at the painting closely you will see holes in Jesus hands and feet. You also can seen on the cross from the blood and the spike marks where Jesus was nailed to the cross. The devils door has endless darkness of Hell , where Jesus' door has endless light of heaven. The rocking chair was designer to represent contemplation. Their are hearts with question marks in side them on the head rest as well the seat. I think of people sitting in their rocking chair when they have a big decision to make. So i think before we make decision, we should thing what will be the fruit down the road. If I plant thistle when it grows up it will hurt me . If i plant wheat, when it grows up it will feed me.

Victory Through Prayer Medium: Water Color Markers on Illustration Board Size 2' x 4' Year completed: 1991 This illustration is part of a collection of artwork I did while in the military entitled, "The Army Years", I served in the Army National Guard for 5 years, and the regular Army for 4 years. One of the main reasons I got out of the military is because I didn't have much time to do my artwork. While I was stationed in Germany I did a few posters, and banners for a German/ American Playhouse, and I was in a European art show. This illustration was done during The Desert Shield / Desert Storm, during this war, many soldiers were afraid that our military equipment would fail to function due to the desert sand. While I was stationed in Germany, I attended a Christian hospitality house, that ministered to military personnel, and their families. I knew and heard of soldiers who died or were wounded in the war, we prayed for God's protection for those we knew were in harm's way. I believe the reason the casualties were low for the collision force is that God gave them a swift victory on the battlefield. No one should think that it was just might, and smart bombs, Iraq had the 4th largest military in the world. The Bible teaches that God causes the rise and the fall of nations. Decoding the symbolism : The " v " with lightning bolt shooting out of it =God giving the collision forces victory over Iraq's military. The large bold eagle with the arrows in its right talon, and with it's left talon open to attack, = the U.S. attacking Iraq. The banner made up of the flag of the collision, tie to the eagle's open talon= The U.S. leading the collision nation in the war against Iraq. The necklace with the cross attached to it, around the eagle's neck = God protect around the U.S. forces, the result of intercessory prayer of Christians. The flag of Iraq illustrated in the shape of the geological area mass of country, being shattered by the lighting = God judging Iraq, by giving the collision power to conquer Iraq and occupy her land. The land mass colored red at the bottom corner of Iraq = the country Kuwait, that Iraq invaded, that was the cause of the war. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo October 12, 2008

Fed by a Miracle of Compassion Medium: Acrylic on canvas Size: 11”x14” Year: 2019 Artist: Stephen J. Vattimo Matthew 14:13-21 New American Standard Bible (NASB) Five Thousand Fed 13 Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself; and when the [a]people heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. 14 When He went [b]ashore, He saw a large crowd, and felt compassion for them and healed their sick. 15 When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This place is desolate and the hour is already [c]late; so send the crowds away, that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” 16 But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away; you give them something to eat!” 17 They *said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” 18 And He said, “Bring them here to Me.” 19 Ordering the [d]people to [e]sit down on the grass, He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food, and breaking the loaves He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds, 20 and they all ate and were satisfied. They picked up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve full baskets. 21 There were about five thousand men who ate, besides women and children. This illustration is part of a mural about the ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. The mural consists 9 images that depict the Miracles of Compassion Christ worked that are recorded in the Bible and He continues to perform in the world today. Understanding the symbolism in the painting. The basket of to fish and bread sits in the grass; Jesus had instructed His disciples to have the people sit down in the grass. Dead grass: the event took place in a desolate place. Historical and cultural illustration. Basket design: In the first century in the middle east people traveled on foot and when on a long journey they carried food with them. The common lunch pal during this time period was most likely a small wicker style basket with a removable lid, and a leather strap attached to it. So, a person can sling it across their shoulder for comfortable transportation. The basket would most likely be lined with a cloth wrap around the food to protect it from dust and bugs. The fish and bread: In John 6:1-15 which mentions the same event, tell us the 2 fish and five loaves of bread belong to boy, so most likely his meal was that of a poor person. The common fish that was eaten by the poor in this region and time period, were sardines. The five loaves of bread: Were most likely a type of flat bread which is commonly consumed by middle eastern people. The Bible verse that best communicates the message of this illustration is: Matthew 6:25-33 New American Standard Bible (NASB) The Cure for Anxiety 25 “For this reason I say to you, [n]do not be worried about your [o]life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the [p]air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27 And who of you by being worried can add a single [q]hour to his [r]life? 28 And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, 29 yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! 31 Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32 For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But [s]seek first [t]His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be [u]added to you. Written by Stephen J. Vattimo 3/25/2019

Based on bible story: Jonah inside the big fish

coloring poster covering whole Bible

Angels in Dutch Bibles